MUSCAT: National unity and a quick response from the government has helped in reducing the damages caused by cyclone Shaheen in parts of Oman, the country’s Minister of Finance said.

Cyclone Shaheen that hit the Sultanate early this month, ravaged wilayats of Al Khaburah and Al Suwaiq causing large scale destruction in the North Al Batinah governorate and claimed 13 lives.

“The damage is great and everyone noticed the destruction that occurred in these areas,” said His Excellency Sultan bin Salem Al Habsi.

‎”Housing has been provided to citizens whose homes were destroyed by the valleys, the government is working round the clock to ensure the situation in these areas are brought back to normal,” Al Habsi said.

More than 15,000 people came together on Thursday to help those affected by the cyclone in North Al Batinah. “The government appreciates this. No words to describe my happiness in seeing the country coming together in this challenging time. We thank them,” Al Habsi added.