Bengaluru: The Karnataka government on Thursday (May 9) announced Rs 10 crore for relief and assistance to the cyclone-affected people of Odisha after the cyclonic storm "Fani" claimed more than 40 people’s lives and destroyed the coastal areas.

This move from the government came after Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy expressed his solidarity with the people of Odisha on May 7.

"In view of a huge loss of life and property in Odisha on account of the 'Fani' cyclone, it is proposed to contribute a sum of Rs 10 crore to assist the affected people," the government said.

The toll in the cyclone-battered state has mounted to 41. Massive restoration work is underway in Odisha where "Fani" made landfall near Puri last Friday, ripping apart major infrastructure, including houses, water and power supply among others.

Meanwhile, the Odisha government, on Tuesday (May 7), sought the Centre's help in restoring power and telecom services in Puri and Khurda districts, which is said to be in a worst condition after being hit by Cyclone Fani, due to a shortage of skilled manpower.

As the Odisha government sought Centre's help, Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu extended a helping hand to Odisha and said that a team of 2055 workers, shift operators and staff from energy department will be deputed for rectification work so that service can be restored at a faster pace.

Naidu had also announced Rs 15 crore financial support for the cyclone victims of Odisha.

Former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda and Kumaraswamy spoke to Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday and expressed their solidarity with the people of the state.