Kochi, Dec 8 (PTI) An Indian Navy ship engaged in searchand rescue operations in the aftermath of Cyclone Ockhi todaylocated about 17 boats with over 180 people off Lakshadweepcoast.
However, it was not clear whether the 180 people includedthe about 100 fishermen missing after the cyclone.
A Defence spokesman said INS Kalpeni was sent to OffSesostris Bank/Bassas de Pedro — a traditional fishing areaoff Lakshadweep Island based on Naval P8I aircraft's inputsabout the boats.
"She has located about 17 boats with 180 plus people.Allthese boats reported safe," he said.
He said the people in the boats intended to continuefishing as they have not encountered the cyclone at all.
The spokesman said normalcy is being restored on a war-footing at Minicoy island, with the Naval contingent working24X7.
In addition, a relief camp was established to distributerelief materials ferried by naval ships to all 11 villagesthrough their 'Moopans' (village heads) as requested by theLakshadweep administration, he said.
Other maintenance activities such as clearing of fallentrees, cleaning of premises of jetty area, Navodaya School,relief camp and Fisheries department premises are beingundertaken by Naval personnel present there, the spokesmansaid. PTI TGB SSDV.
This is unedited, unformatted feed from the Press Trust of India wire.