Kakinada, East Godavari districts step up cyclone preparedness

Fisherfolk along the Kakinada coast have been alerted to suspend fishing activities in view of heavy rains and strong winds expected from October 27. Those engaged in marine fishing have been asked to return to their respective fish landing centres.

Kakinada Joint Collector Apoorva Bharat has directed officials to defer their leave during the cyclone period and remain available to handle the situation until further instructions. Revenue, Civil Supplies and Fisheries officials have been asked to ensure adequate fuel supplies at filling stations and deliver gas cylinders within two days. Control rooms have been set up at the Collectorate and all mandal headquarters, and relief camps have been identified.

In East Godavari district, Collector Ch. Kirthi has directed officials to identify low-lying areas, make arrangements for relief centres and alert traditional fisherfolk engaged in fishing in the Godavari river.

The heavy rains expected over the next few days are unlikely to affect the standing paddy crop, as harvesting is scheduled to begin towards the end of November.