IFFCO Kandla braces for Nilofar

Gujarat State administration is preparing to face ‘Cyclone Nilofar’, which has developed in the Arabian Sea and is likely to move towards the state’s coast. The Met Department issued a warning asking port authorities to put up raised and easily noticeable warning signals.

Bracing himself for the situation, IFFCO Managing Director Dr U S Awasthi said he is confident about the ability of the IFFCO’s Kandla unit to brave the elements.

Dr. U S Awasthi (@drusawasthi) tweeted: #IFFCO Kandla faced severe cyclone in 1998 which we successfully withstood. I am confident that cyclone # Nilofar would be handled better.”

The IFFCO’s Kandla unit was commissioned in 1975 and it produces NPK/DAP, Water soluble Urea Phosphate and Zinc Sulphate monohydrate, according to the fertilizer giant’s website.

District Collector Mahendra Patel has also asked the authorities of the Kandla Port Trust (KPT) to remain alert. If the Nilofar moves towards the Gujarat coast, it may bring atmospheric changes like rainfall and strong winds.

An Ahmadabad Meteorological Centre official said the exact situation of the cyclone could be ascertained only after 48 hours.