2nd Ld Writethru: Rough weather hampers Indian navy's evacuation efforts for stranded 1,400 tourists in Andamans

Inclement weather Wednesday hampered Indian navy's efforts to evacuate about 1,400 tourists stranded in India's eastern archipelago of Andaman and Nicobar after heavy rains, officials said.

Officials said a severe depression formed over southeast Bay of Bengal has caused heavy rainfall, strong wind and rough sea conditions in Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

According to India's official broadcaster, All India Radio (AIR), about 1,400 tourists, who have visited the Islands during past few days remain stranded and were unable to return to Port Blair, the capital of of Andaman and Nicobar to fly back home.

"The cyclone caused by depression has already hit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on Monday. The worst effected parts are Havelock and Neil Islands which are separated by approx 40 km from Port Blair," the broadcaster said.

Indian navy has pressed in its four ships to rescue the stranded tourists and bring them from Havelock island to the main city of Port Blair.

The transportation services -- ship, boat and helicopter -- to Havelock and Neil islands have stopped since Monday. The local population of 10 villages in the area have also been affected severely by the cyclone which has hampered the movement of essential supplies.

Reports quoting meteorological department officials said the weather conditions were likely to remain same for the next 48 hours.

Every year thousands of tourists including foreigners visit the coral reef-fringed Andaman islands.

The place is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches. Endit