New Delhi, May 10 (FN Agency) Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla on Tuesday reviewed preparedness of Central Ministries, Agencies and administration of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha in view of impending Cyclone Asani in the Bay of Bengal. IMD informed that the cyclone is likely to reach West Central Bay of Bengal close to Kakinada-Vishakhapatanam coasts by morning or noon of May 11, and will then move along Andhra coast between Kakinada and Vishakhapatanam (Krishna, East and West Godavari and Vishakhapatanam districts), the Home Ministry said.
The cyclone would have wind speeds of 75-85 kmph gusting to 95 kmph on the Andhra coast and 45-55 kmph gusting to 65 kmph on the Odisha coast. Suspension of fishing operations has been adviced. NDRF has deployed nine teams and kept seven teams on standby in Andhra Pradesh; it has deployed one team and kept 17 on standby in Odisha and deployed 12 teams and kept five on standby in West Bengal. Additional teams are also in readiness if required, the Home Ministry said. Union Home Secretary directed Central Ministries and Agencies to keep a regular watch and be in touch with administrations of Andhra Pradesh & Odisha for any help, the ministry added.