NDRF deploys three teams from Tamil Nadu to Andhra Pradesh
Three National Disaster Response Force teams have moved to Andhra Pradesh as Cyclone Murasu approaches the coast.
Three teams from the 4th battalion of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been sent from Tamil Nadu to Andhra Pradesh for rescue and relief work, according to reports from Deccan Chronicle and ANI. The teams, stationed at Nagarikuppam near Arakkonam in the Ranipet district, departed to assist following the landfall of Cyclone Murasu.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) stated that the severe cyclonic storm is expected to hit the south Andhra Pradesh coast between midnight on November 2 and the early hours of November 3. The system is predicted to make landfall between Nellore and Narsapur, near Ongole, with wind speeds of 100–110 kmph and gusts reaching 120 kmph.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu directed officials on Sunday to prepare for relief operations, noting that the storm could cross the coast near Bapatla on the morning of November 3. Preliminary estimates suggest strong winds could damage approximately 15,128 electricity poles across 12 districts.
In Odisha, Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said the government is prepared and has issued orders to evacuate people from hilly areas and low-lying regions. The state has sounded a high alert in its southern region, including Ganjam.
In Rayagada, Additional District Magistrate (General) Ravindranath Kahanra said the administration has deployed 11 fire station teams and heavy machinery, such as excavators and cranes, to clear National Highway 326 if needed. The district is under a yellow warning until November 2, moving to an orange warning for November 3 and 4.