Karaikal
| Karaikal | |
| State - District(s) | Pondicherry - Karaikal |
| Area | |
| Time zone | IST (UTC+5:30) |
| Population (2001) - Density | 74,333 - |
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| Karaikal | |
| State - District(s) | Pondicherry - Karaikal |
| Area | |
| Time zone | IST (UTC+5:30) |
| Population (2001) - Density | 74,333 - |
Karaikal (also Karikal or Karaikkal) is a city and a municipality in Karaikal district in the Indian state of Pondicherry.
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Located 132 km south of the city of Pondicherry, Karaikal is known for its rich religious heritage, and is a destination for those seeking leisure and serenity. The town boasts a harmonious society comprising of Hindus, Muslims, Christians and people of other religious persuations. Tamil is the predominant native language of the people. As the area was formerly a French possession, the French language is also found, especially among the elder generation.
The town houses the offices of the Oil & Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC), which explores, produces and supplies oil & natural gas. The town's economy depends to a large extent on this organization.
On the 26th of December 2004 , Karaikal faced its worst tragedy. Tsunami waves hit this coastal town in India. More than 500 people, mostly fishermen families, were washed away by the killer waves.
As of 2001 India censusGRIndia, Karaikal had a population of 74,333. Males constitute 49% of the population and females 51%. Karaikal has an average literacy rate of 73%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 79%, and female literacy is 68%. In Karaikal, 12% of the population is under 6 years of age.
