03 October 2004	Sunday	17 Shaban 1425

KARACHI, Oct 2: The situation arising from a possible cyclone heading towards coastal areas of Sindh was discussed in detail at a meeting held under the chairmanship of Sindh Chief Minister Dr. Arbab Ghulam Rahim here on Saturday.

The meeting was informed about the location of the cyclone which was 425 kms away from Karachi to the South on Saturday morning.

It was informed that the cyclone was likely to gain momentum and can head towards North and North-East causing abnormal rains in lower Sindh districts of Thatta and Badin besides Karachi. The meeting was told that the cyclone can hit coastal areas of Sindh on Sunday morning with wind velocity being at 35 to 50 knots causing 10 to 15 feet high waves in the sea.

In the meeting, the fishermen were advised to avoid going deep sea.

The chief minister directed the concerned authorities to advise the boats already in the sea and the people living in coastal areas to move to safe places so that no life or material loss could occur.

Dr. Arbab asked the DCOs of Karachi, Thatta and Badin to immediately set up control rooms in their offices, set up maximum relief camps and make arrangements for food supplies for shiftees.

The Senior Member Board of Revenue was told to gear up preparatory relief activities and arrange for shifting of affectees to safer places with the help and cooperation of the Navy.

The Secretary Health was directed to ensure availability of anti-snake bite vaccine at medical camps and also arrange mobile medical teams.

The secretary of livestock was asked to immediately send out teams for treatment of livestock in areas likely to be affected besides mobile teams.

The chief minister made it clear that everyone should perform his responsibilities with all diligence. -APP