4 naval ships deployed for search and rescue in Lakshadweep, Minicoy Islands

CHENNAI: Indian naval ships, equipped with desalination plants and aid materials, will be stationed close to the Cyclone Ockhi-hit areas to provide relief to the affected people, an official said on Sunday.

The ships contain relief materials which would sustain around 5,000 people for a period of seven days, a public relations officer of the defence ministry said.

He also said that all naval units in the vicinity of Lakshadweep and Minicoy Islands were directed to provide fresh water in consultation with the local administration.

The Naval ships Chennai, Trikand and Kolkata have been stationed around the islands for emergency search and relief operations, Commander Sridhar Warrier said.

In addition, the Navy has deployed eight aircraft, including long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft P8I, for search and rescue mission.

A total 55 people were rescued on Sunday taking the total to 145, he said, adding, the weather condition is still adverse on the Islands.

Cyclone Ochki, packed with strong winds and heavy rains, struck the southern seaboard on November 30, leaving a trail of destruction on its path.

At least a dozen people have been killed over the past three days in the storm in Tamil Nadu and Kerala while hundreds of others have been rescued.