Cyclone Phailin: Naveen urges Antony to keep forces ready

As cyclone "Phailin" moved towards Odisha coast and lay centred about 850 km from Paradip, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today sought the help of defence forces to meet the impending situation.

"Our past experience indicates that despite the state government's preparedness, impact of a very severe cyclonic storm requires support of the defence forces to mitigate the effects of extreme weather events," Patnaik said in a letter to Defence Minister A K Antony.

Noting that on previous occasions in 2007, 2008 and 2011 defence forces had extended commendable cooperation to the state government in relief and rescue operations, Patnaik said this time also the cyclone is expected to leave an impact on life and property.

"I would request you to kindly consider issuing standing instructions to the defence forces, specially the Air Force and the Navy, to remain in readiness to extend support to the state administration in relief and rescue operation as and when required," the Chief Minister said in the letter.

Earlier, the state government had also informed the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to keep their choppers ready for relief and rescue work in the state.