Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday reviewed the preparations for cyclone Vayu, which is expected to make a landfall in Gujarat, and directed officials to ensure the safety of people.
The National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC), chaired by Cabinet Secretary P.K Sinha, also met to discuss preparedness.
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed 26 teams, comprising about 45 personnel each, and the rescuers are equipped with boats, tree-cutters and telecom equipment.
The NDRF is also sending another 10 teams as requested by the Gujarat government.
Ms. Shah has asked officials to ensure maintenance of all essential services such as power, telecommunications, health, drinking water and their immediate restoration in the event of disruption.
Ministry monitors States
The Ministry is in continuous touch with the governments of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka and Daman and Diu, which may be affected due to the cyclone.
Units from the Indian Coast Guard, the Navy, the Army and the Air Force have been put on standby and aerial surveillance is being carried out, an official said.
The India Meteorological Department has said that cyclone Vayu is expected to hit the Gujarat coast between Porbandar and Mahuva around Veraval and Diu region as a severe cyclonic storm with wind speed upto 135 kmph early on June 13.
