Monday, January 10 2005 14:47 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Nagapattinam (TN): When the jawans of the Madras Engineers Group, Bangalore, first landed in the tsunami-ravaged coastal villages in Nagapattinam, they were looked upon as outsiders by locals.

But after their massive relief and rescue efforts, the men in uniform have become an integral part of these villages.

From removing dead bodies to laying of new roads, from repairing damaged fishing vessels to distribution of relief material among the tsunami victims, the jawans have done yeoman service since the tidal tragedy struck.

"Initially the locals were a bit hesitant to approach us. But as we began our rescue and relief work, they became more familiar with us. Now they approach us regularly to get their fishing vessels repaired by us," says Major Shiva who is now leading the Madras Engineers in relief work in Nagapattinam.

When the jawans, led by Brigadier Jose Manavalan, began their relief work two weeks ago, they not only had to move countless dead bodies and debris from the shore, but also restore damaged roads and repair many fishing vessels, which lay strewn along the coast.

"We have not only repaired more than a dozen boats but have also gone into the sea with local fishermen in them in order to boost their morale and to encourage them to go into the sea once all repair work is completed," says Major Shiva.

Another challenge before the men in uniform was to repair the Nagapattinam-Velankanni road, which was badly damaged at two areas, seriously hampering relief work.

Using innovative techniques, the Madras Engineers constructed two short bypass roads in these areas and restored traffic.

The jawans were also at the forefront in the distribution of relief material despatched from Chennai by the Indian Army. They have distributed thousands of kilograms of rice, flour, dal and tea leaves to the victims.

"We have had very good interaction with the locals here and gave them all necessary help whenever they demanded it. However, we would consider our mission a success if at least a dozen local youth come forward to join the Army when we move out from here", a hopeful Major Shiva says.