Relief operations were launched on a war-footing to bring back normalcy in Tamil Nadu's cyclone-battered Cuddalore district and adjacent Puducherry, as the toll caused by the severe storm mounted to 42 yesterday.

As the administrative machinery was put in top gear, Chief Minister Jayalalithaa said nine more people have died in rain related incidents, taking the toll to 42, following the severe cyclonic storm 'Thane' that crossed Tamil Nadu coast on Friday.