The Andhra Pradesh Government is on alert to face the threat posed by the cyclonic storm Hudhud and has given instructions to the collectors of the four coastal districts likely to be affected to take all precautionary measures, according to State Panchayat Raj Minister Ch. Ayyanna Patrudu.

He told reporters here on Thursday that according to the forecasts the cyclonic storm may cross the coast anywhere between Gopalpur in Odisha to Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh on Sunday forenoon and four districts in AP may be affected - Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam and East Godavari.

There may be some impact on the other coastal districts. "The collectors have set up control rooms in these districts and are taking all precautionary steps. Fishermen have been warned to keep off the sea. We will act as the situation unfolds," he said.

Coincidentally, almost at the same time last year, Phailin cyclone crossed the coast near Gopalpur in Odisha and Srikakulam district was badly affected.

>sarma.rs@thehindu.co.in

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