In a proactive response to the looming threat of cyclone 'Michaung' in the Bay of Bengal, the National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC), led by Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba, convened on Friday to assess the preparedness of state governments and central ministries/departments. The committee took stock of the current situation and outlined measures to mitigate potential damage and protect lives and property.
According to the Director General of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the depression over the Southeast and adjoining Southwest Bay of Bengal has been moving west-northwestwards at a speed of 13 kmph. As of the latest update, it is centered at Latitude 9.5°N and Longitude 86.0°E, approximately 730 km east-southeast of Puducherry. The depression is expected to intensify into a Deep Depression by December 2nd and further evolve into a Cyclonic Storm over the Southwest Bay of Bengal around December 3rd.
The projected path indicates a west-northwestward movement, reaching the south Andhra Pradesh and adjoining north Tamil Nadu coasts by December 4th forenoon. Subsequently, it is forecasted to move nearly northwards, parallel to the south Andhra Pradesh coast, and make landfall between Nellore and Machilipatnam as a Cyclonic Storm with wind speeds ranging from 80-90 kmph, gusting up to 100 kmph.
Chief Secretaries of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha, along with the Finance Secretary of Puducherry, provided the NCMC with updates on the preparatory measures being undertaken in their respective regions. Local administrations are actively engaged in safeguarding public welfare and property. Fishermen have been advised against venturing into the sea, and preparations, including the availability of shelters, power supply, medicine, and emergency services, are in full swing.
In anticipation of the cyclone, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed 18 teams to Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Puducherry, with an additional 10 teams on standby. The Coast Guard, Army, and Navy have also mobilized rescue and relief teams, along with ships and aircraft, ready for prompt action.
Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba emphasized the necessity for comprehensive preventive and precautionary measures, aiming to prevent loss of life and minimize damage to property and infrastructure. The focus is on swift restoration of essential services. Additionally, ensuring the safety of fishermen at sea and personnel in vulnerable areas such as oil rigs is a top priority.
The meeting was attended by key officials, including Chief Secretaries, Union Home Secretary, and representatives from relevant ministries and agencies, underscoring the collaborative effort to address the impending crisis.
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