Mumbai, As the threat of cyclone “Michaung” looms over India’s east coast, the Tamil Nadu government has announced a public holiday on Monday. The decision is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of residents in the affected areas.
However, essential services such as police, fire service, local bodies, medical facilities, power supply, and disaster response offices will continue to function as usual during this period. The public holiday is aimed at minimizing risks and facilitating preparedness for the impending cyclone.
Cyclone “Michaung” is anticipated to make landfall between Nellore and Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh, with wind speeds reaching up to 100 kmph on Tuesday forenoon. The cyclonic storm, currently over the Southwest Bay of Bengal, is expected to intensify and move northwestwards, reaching the Westcentral Bay of Bengal off south Andhra Pradesh and north Tamil Nadu coasts by Monday forenoon.
The India Meteorological Department has advised fisherfolk to avoid venturing into the sea during this period, and those already at sea are urged to return to the coast by today. The weather office warns of potential risks, including damage to structures, tree branches, power and communication lines, and crops.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy to assess preparations for the cyclone, emphasizing the need for all possible assistance. As a precautionary measure, the East Coast Railway of Indian Railways has canceled 54 trains from December 2 to December 7, 2023.
Stay tuned for further updates on the cyclone and its impact on the region.
By ANI
