Raigad braces for Cyclone Tauktae

Generators and oxygen backup for 48 hours provided at all ICUs in district

With the cyclonic storm Tauktae intensifying and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a warning for people living along the coast of Raigad district, Nidhi Choudhary, District Collector, interacted with the public through Facebook live on Saturday. Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray had directed authorities in coastal districts to remain alert and to take all necessary precautions. Ms. Choudhary said, “The cyclone is expected to make landfall on Gujarat coast but will pass via Raigad, affecting coastal areas in the district. We have started pre-monsoon work, besides structural audits and taken precautionary steps at hospitals. Damaged and weak trees are being trimmed. Generators and oxygen backup for 48 hours have been provided at ICUs of all hospitals. Our past experience with Cyclone Nisarga will be helpful.” Last year’s cyclone had inflicted heavy damage on the infrastructure of the Energy Department. “From Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited and Maharashtra State Electricity Transmission Company Limited, we have deployed teams at various places, especially COVID-19 hospitals and oxygen generating plants. Cyclone curfew and cooperation from people will play key roles like last year,” she said.