Port Blair, Nov 29: The Department of Environment & Forests under the control of PCCF and Addl.PCCF(A&V) immediately swung into action following the devastating cyclone “Lehar” that passed the islands and caused damage in South Andaman and Middle Andaman Districts on 25.11.13. The Nodal Officer, Disaster Management of the Department Shri J.P Misra, IFS, CCF (T) joined the team of officials at State Control Room to coordinate the efforts of the Department in the rescue and relief effort. A control room was set up at Van Sadan under the command of Conservator of Forests (HQ). Various teams were constituted by South Andaman, Baratang, Middle Andaman, Forest Extension & Publicity and Chatham Saw Mill Divisions comprising of executive staff and mazdoors to remove trees fallen on the roads and buildings.
Showing extemporary dedication the team succeeded in removing the trees fallen near VIP road, Secretariat, Raj Niwas, Foreshore road, Haddo, Gandhi Park, Near JNRM and Corbyn’s Cove, Bambooflat, Shoalbay, Ferrargunj, Miletilak etc. and other locations of North and Middle Andaman Districts in a very short period. Due to swift action of Forest personnel and working hand in hand with Fire brigade, Police. PBMC etc the blocked roads could be cleared for traffic in the same day. Similarly the team constituted by DFO Baratang and DFO South Andaman and staff from Middle Andaman and Mayabunder Forest Division worked round the clock braving inclement weather condition and cleared the entire stretch of ATR where a large number of trees had fallen across the road and this morning the ATR has been made ready for motorable traffic.
