Six persons died as cyclone Laila crossed the coast at Bapatla, about 270 km from Hyderabad, on Thursday afternoon, taking the total number of deaths to nine. Among the dead was a constable belonging to Ongole.
Telephone and power poles links were snapped, but the state appeared escaped serious damage that was being feared under the impact of the cyclone which was carrying rain and winds at 125 kmph. Lakes did not breach their banks, and much of the rabi crop had already been harvested.Indeed, the rains accompanying the cyclone could mean that farmers can start sowing operations early, The rain also served to recharge groundwater.
About 51,000 people were evacuated to safer areas, but that is a small number compared to the high population in the districts in the cyclone’s path.
The cyclone weakened considerably as it approached the AP coast and crossed inland. At 9.30 pm, Laila still lay centred close to Bapatla. According to meteorologists, Laila is likely to weaken gradually and move to the north and then curve to the northeast and head towards Orissa.
The cyclone is still expected to carry gusty winds and rain that could reach from Telangana on the west to Bengal.
Collectors of West Godavari, East Godavari, Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram and Srikakulam have reported that there is not much of rain and no major damage reported.
The Chief Minister, Mr K Rosaiah directed district officials to make use of special rules rule to draw funds from treasury and use for emergency.
Speaking to mediapersons in the Secretariat, the Chief Minister described the frequent natural disturbances as ‘tests’ of nature.
“I am trying to overcome these tests with sheer commitment,” said Mr Rosaiah. He asked the officials to be alert for another 24 hours till the cyclone passes.
The revenue minister, Mr D Prasada Rao, said the danger from cyclone still looms.