Ensure efficacy of cyclone forecast technologies: Alphons

Kochi Jan 16 (IANS) In the backdrop of the controversy surrounding forewarning about Cyclone Ockhi that devastated coastal Kerala Union Minister of State for Tourism K.J. Alphons on Tuesday called for ensuring the efficacy of the existing technologies used for forecasting such disasters.

He was speaking at the second international symposium on the "Societal Applications in Fisheries and Aquaculture using Remote Sensing Imagery (SAFARI)" organised by the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) here.

"Cyclone Ockhi has claimed many lives in the coastal region. A retrospection is required to understand what actually happened with the cyclone warning. The scientists and the authorities concerned must seriously look into these things. There is no point in engaging in a blame game between the Centre and the state " said Alphons.

He added the need of the hour was to develop adequate technologies to mitigate such disasters.

"The communication system has to be improved. The scientists should ensure that all their research efforts benefit the common people " added the Minister.

Cyclone Ockhi had hit the southern districts of Kerala on November 30 which left 79 dead and over 140 are still reported missing.

--IANS
sg/nir/dg