Thousands throng Marina beach for Amma's final journey

Preparations are in full swing for the cremation of late Tamil Nadu chief minister J. Jayalalithaa at the Marina Beach here this evening as huge crowd including VIPs and VVIPs from politics, government and other various fields are expected to bid their last respects to the departed soul.

Thousands came out on the streets to pay their last respects and have a last glimpse of their leader popularly known as Amma.

Jayalalithaa, who died of a massive cardiac arrest late last evening, will reportedly be buried next to the memorial of All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) founder and her mentor M.G. Ramachandran at Marina beach.

All necessary arrangements have been put in place for Jayalalithaa's cremation.

Helicopters have been deployed by the Tamil Nadu Government at the area to conduct aerial surveillance. On the ground, there is heavy presence of personnel from the Rapid Action Force, the army, as well as the Tamil Nadu Police.

Jayalalithaa has been accorded a state funeral and will be honoured with a gun salute at the time of her burial.

The late AIADMK supremo's body is being carried to the burial site by officials of the armed forces.