AP makes arrangements to evacuate people as 'Hudhud' looms

The Andhra Pradesh government has made all arrangements to evacuate people in low lying areas of coastal districts to safer places as it braces to face the cyclonic storm and mitigate its impact to minimise damages.

Deputy Chief Minister K E Krishna Murthy said all collectors of coastal districts have been instructed to be watchful and monitor the progress of the 'Hudhud' cyclone and take all precautionary measures.

The cyclone is presently active and lay centred about 570 kms from Visakhapatnam and Srikakulam areas. Under its impact there is likelihood of heavy, very heavy rains and high speed winds.

The cyclone is likely to cross the land border between Visakhapatnam and Srikakulam during early hours of October 12 or a little later, according to the Minister.

Srikakulam Collector has made all arrangements to protect people residing in low lying areas near the coast, and entrusted special duties to 25 officers to constantly monitor the situation and arrange trouble-shooting wherever necessary, Krishna Murthy said. Instructions have been issued to arrange relief to all the affected public.

The collectors of Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram and East Godavari have also made arrangements to evacuate people living in low lying areas to safer places.

"The government machinery is geared up to face the impending cyclonic storm and mitigate its impact to minimise the damages," said Krishna Murthy, who holds the Revenue portfolio.

He said the government has deputed Aravindkumar, Joint Secretary, specifically to monitor administrative action in facing the cyclonic threat to the east coast, adding, the National Disaster Response Force teams have been placed at the disposal of the administration for effective use.