Andaman and Nicobar Requests Air Sorties To Evacuate Tourists, Send Supplies

With the deep depression over Southeast Bay of Bengal intensifying into a cyclonic storm, the Andaman and Nicobar administration on Thursday (8 December) requested the Defence Ministry to provide air sorties to expedite the movement of tourists trapped in the islands and ensure essential supplies.

Meanwhile, the four ships dispatched by the Indian Navy for rescuing the 800 trapped tourists in Havelock Island were waiting outside the harbour, unable to start the operation due to inclement weather.

The Directorate of Tourism is coordinating with all airline agencies for the smooth and timely return journey of the tourists to their respective home towns, an Andaman and Nicobar administration release said.

The Island has witnessed cyclonic weather since Tuesday. However, there is no report of any loss of life, from any parts of the Islands so far.

With inputs from IANS