Cyclone 'Phyan': Centre sending NDRF to western states

With cyclonic storm 'Phyan' approaching coastlines, the Centre has alerted Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa and two Union Territories and is sending disaster response force for their assistance.

A team of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has also been sent to Kottagiri in Tamil Nadu where a school has been marooned following heavy rains.

Home Ministry sources said besides the three Western states, authorities of Union Territories of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu have been asked to be fully alert to face any eventuality when 'Phyan' hits their coastlines.

"NDRF teams are reaching the states to assist the local administration. Besides, we are ready to provide all necessary help to the states," a Home Ministry official said.

In Mumbai, the authorities have asked all educational institutions and offices in the city to close down this afternoon.

Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi called a review meeting of the state Disaster Management Authority and directed the district administration to keep an eye on the changing weather and take appropriate measures.

Cyclonic storm 'Phyan' is expected to hit South Gujarat and North Maharashtra by late this evening following a deep depression formed in the South East and adjoining Central Arabian Sea.