Cyclone Michaung: Chennai police have initiated a district disaster response team in response to the forecast of a cyclonic storm crossing South Andhra Pradesh and North Tamil Nadu. The Commissioner of Police, Sandeep Rai Rathore, unveiled the preparations on Saturday to handle the potential impact.The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a cyclonic storm crossing the South Andhra Pradesh and North Tamil Nadu coast between Chennai and Machilipatnam by the evening of December 4. A well-marked low-pressure area developed into a depression over the Southwest Bay of Bengal, prompting authorities to gear up for potential challenges.District Disaster Response Team ConceptCommissioner Rathore stated that anticipating the cyclones approach, they have deployed numerous teams and introduced the concept of a district disaster response team. Each of Chennais 12 districts now has a highly trained team equipped with specialised gear such as boats, life jackets, and personnel trained by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF).Police Personnel on DutyApart from the district teams, the Chennai police and traffic police personnel are on duty. Approximately 18,000 Chennai police personnel will be on round-the-clock duty, supported by 3,000 traffic police personnel, traffic wardens, and home guards.Preparedness MeasuresIn addition to the teams, a dedicated police hospital has been established, and a green corridor for ambulances requiring immediate movement will be implemented. Commissioner Rathore expressed confidence in responding effectively to any situation with these preparations.IMDs Weather ForecastThe IMD highlighted that the deep depression is likely to transform into a cyclonic storm over the Southwest Bay of Bengal by December 3. It is expected to intensify further, crossing South Andhra Pradesh and the adjoining North Tamil Nadu coast between Chennai and Machilipatnam on December 4.Precautionary Measures and EvacuationsAmid the warnings, Chief Minister MK Stalin instructed officials to take precautionary measures, including the evacuation of areas likely to be affected by the cyclone. The sea conditions have become rough, prompting authorities to hoist cyclone warning cage No. 1 in five ports, including Nagapattinam port.As the northeast monsoon intensifies, heavy rain has been reported in various districts of Tamil Nadu, making preparedness and proactive measures crucial in the face of the approaching cyclonic storm.(With ANI Inputs)
