Sunday, December 26 2004 12:54 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today (Dec 26, 2004) expressed concern over the damage caused to life and property by the earthquake and tidal waves hitting the country's eastern coastline and islands in the Bay of Bengal.

The Prime Minister's Office is in constant touch with the concerned State Governments, a PMO (Prime Ministers Office) spokesman said.

The Navy has been alerted and is ready to provide relief and rescue operations, he said.

The Central Government, he said, will extend all required assistance.

The PM appealed to the people in the affected areas to remain calm and seek assistance of the authorities.