Sir: Cyclone Ockchi has left a massive trail of destruction in South Kerala, South Tamil Nadu (both in India) and Lakshadweep. As a result of the cyclone, Tamil Nadu’s southern districts of Tuticorin, Tirunelveli and Kanyakumari have experienced heavy rainfall. Fortunately, these districts that have faced drought conditions so far have now been enriched by the torrential rain. At the same time, proper warning system and safety measures should always be in place in cyclone prone areas. In the melee of Cyclone Ockhi, many fishermen have been reported missing. However, precautionary measures should have averted such unfortunate occurrences. Besides, serious efforts and immediate steps are required to repair roads and mend the power supply grid damaged by the cyclone in Tuticorin, Tirunelveli and Kanyakumari. I myself had made phone-calls to some of my students located in Kanyakumari to know about the situation there. On the other hand, the recent incidents of dolphins and whales being stranded on Tiruchendur and Tuticorin Beaches in Tamil Nadu, India remind us of our responsibility towards nature. As human beings owe their existence to Mother Nature, the natural creatures of the earth should be protected at all costs through sensible plans and serious actions. Senthil Saravana Mumbai Published in Daily Times, December 9th 2017.