Armed forces focus on Visakhapatnam for relief work

Focusing on relief work in the aftermath of cyclone "Hudhud", the armed forces are now focusing on distributing relief material, specially food packets, in the worst effected areas in Visakhapatnam.

Relief operations under "Op Lehar" led by the Indian Navy were getting focussed on Visakhapatnam, Navy officials said.

"The relief material especially food packets and readymade food is now being airlifted by Indian Air Force aircraft and helicopters," a navy official said.

Nearly 41 tonnes of food were airlifted from Vijayawada and 17 tonnes of food were airlifted from Rajamundry.

In addition, nine community kitchens are also being run by the naval authorities.

In the far flung areas like Rambilli, food packets have been air dropped through helicopters.

The cleaning of roads, blocked by uprooted trees and electric poles, is also under way.

Navy officials said clearance of the arterial roads from Visakhapatnam to NH-5 was under progress. The roads from the naval base and to Visakhapatnam has, however, been cleared.

"The naval airfield at INS Dega and the naval port are now fully functional. The heavy lift aircraft of IAF like C-17 Globemaster, along with C-130 Hercules and AN-32 are now bringing in the much needed food supplies directly to Visakhapatnam and Dega airfield, along with other heavy equipment, which are required for restoration of essential services," the navy official said.

So far, the Indian Army has rescued a total of 272 people and the Indian Air Force has flown a total of 50 sorties to airlift 144.5 tonnes of relief material to Visakhapatnam and other affected areas.