NDRF deploys nine teams in A.P. and Yanam for cyclone response

Coastal patrolling has been intensified, and the Marine Police have been put on alert in view of the cyclone, say officials

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed seven teams in Andhra Pradesh and two in Yanam to carry out rescue and relief operations during the cyclone, said NDRF 10th Battalion Commandant V.V.N. Prasanna Kumar.

Speaking to The Hindu on Monday, he said five teams had been kept in reserve and more would be deployed, if necessary, depending on the situation. Instructions had been issued to coordinate with officials of the Disaster Management, Revenue and Police departments. One team was on standby at the Regional Response Centre in Visakhapatnam, he said.

Beaches across the State have been closed, and the public has been advised against venturing near seashores and river bunds to take selfies. Coastal patrolling has been intensified, and the Marine Police have been put on alert in view of the cyclone, officials said.

The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) has also deployed eight teams at various locations across the State to assist with rescue and relief operations over the next three days.

Meanwhile, the Education Department has declared holidays for schools and colleges on October 27 and 28 in view of the forecast of heavy rain.

Eluru District Collector K. Vetriselvi said holidays had been declared for all schools and Anganwadi centres in the district. In Krishna and NTR districts, holidays have been declared for all schools and colleges for the next two days.