Cyclone Tauktae: Operations suspended at Lakshadweep airport

<p>
<strong>Operation of scheduled flights at Agatti airport in Lakshadweep have been suspended till 10 AM Sunday in view of the cyclone Tauktae approaching the western coast of India. The airport will be made operational as and when the cyclone passes the area.<br />
</strong><br />
As per the Technical Circular issued on the subject, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) is taking stock of the preparedness of western coastal airports in the southern and western region and consistently monitoring the situation.<br />
<br />
Though so far, nothing adverse is reported and all operations are normal, I.N Murthy, AAI Member (Operations), has directed all the concerned airports to take all precautions and plan their preparedness.<br />
<br />
Keeping safety in mind and to minimize damage to the airport infrastructure, airports have been advised to plan as per as per the SoP and guidelines. Precautionary measures as per check lists for pre and post-cyclone are being ensured by the concerned airports.<br />
<br />
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a weather forecast regarding pre-cyclone watch for south Gujarat and Diu coasts (Depression over Lakshadweep area). As per the forecast, it is very likely to intensify into a cyclonic storm during the next 24 hours and intensify further.<br />
<br />
It is very likely to move north-northwestwards and reach near Gujarat coast by May 18 and a warning has been issued for Lakshadweep islands, Kerala, Tamil Nadu (ghat districts) and Karnataka (coastal & adjoining ghat districts).</p>