NDRF teams deployed from Chennai to Andhra Pradesh for Cyclone Murasu
Three specialised National Disaster Response Force teams have been sent to assist with rescue and relief operations in Andhra Pradesh.
Three National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams comprising 90 personnel have been deployed from the 4th Battalion near Arakkonam to support disaster management in Andhra Pradesh, according to the Deccan Chronicle. The teams are heading to regions including Nellore, Prakasam, and Markapuram to assist with rescue and relief operations as the state braces for Cyclone Murasu.
The cyclone is currently positioned in the Bay of Bengal and is expected to make landfall between tonight and the morning of November 3. The IMD stated the storm moved west-northwestwards at 14 kmph and was centered about 120 km east-southeast of Nellore. It is expected to cross the South Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narsapur with wind speeds of 100-110 kmph, gusting to 120 kmph.
In Chennai, Greater Chennai Corporation commissioner G S Sameeran said on Monday that the city has mobilised one NDRF battalion and placed vulnerable coastal areas on alert. The commissioner advised residents to remain indoors and warned against going outdoors to take photographs or videos or approaching the sea due to rough conditions.
The corporation has identified Tiruvottiyur and Manali as vulnerable coastal areas. The city administration has prepared 220 relief centres with food supplies to accommodate residents if evacuation becomes necessary.
The Greater Chennai Corporation has also deployed field workers and emergency equipment, including JCB machines, tipper trucks, and tree-pruning machines. Traffic police have been alerted to implement diversions on Ennore High Road if wind speeds increase.