Cyclonic wind lashes Arunachal's capital

Itanagar, May 10 (UNI) A high velocity cyclonic wind, accompanied by thunderstorm left a trail of destruction in the capital city of Arunachal Pradesh last night.

The magnitude of the wind was so high that several buildings, including the boundary wall of the Chief Minister's official residence and the Congress Bhawan here were badly damaged.

Several bamboo grooves and trees were uprooted in many places of Itanagar and its adjoining areas, damaging houses besides water supply pipes, electric cables and telephone cables. However, no causalties were reported from any part of the capital complex.

Services of both the news agencies UNI and PTI were disrupted following non-availability of power supply as the electric cables connecting both the offices were badly damaged by the uprooted trees.

The denizens of the capital complex had a tough time today, following the non-availability of power supply and water supply in various sectors. However, the departments concerned had pressed their men into service to restore power and water supply.

Many portions of National Highway 52(A), the lifeline of the capital city, were blocked by uprooted trees till 1100 hrs this morning badly affecting traffic movement.

The worst hit areas were Banderdewa, Naharlogun, Nirjuli, Doimukh, Chandranagar, Niti Vihar, Vivek Vihar, Chimpu and Ganga.

The Police Training Centre at Banderdewa was badly damaged by the cyclonic wind.

According to official sources here, the losses might amount to crores.

UNI UPB LL SBC VC1746