New Delhi, Nov 26 (IANS): The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, known for its philanthropic initiatives in developing countries, Wednesday granted $500,000 to an NGO for addressing the most pressing needs resulting from the cyclone Hudhud in Andhra Pradesh.

The total damage costs are estimated to be between $9.7 and 11 billion, proving it to be the most costly cyclone ever to have hit India, said a release issued by the Gates Foundation.

According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the tropical cyclone Hudhud affected at least 920,000 people.

Potable drinking water, toilets, shelter and lights are emerging as the primary needs of those affected, the release said.

CARE, a non-governmental organization (NGO), would channelise the grant to procure and distribute non-food items to 1,100 households.

In addition, the NGO will conduct a detailed assessment of shelter, water, sanitation and hygiene needs in the three worst affected districts of Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram and Srikakulam, and then provide support accordingly.

"While a long-term response to this devastating natural disaster is developed, it is imperative that we respond to the immediate humanitarian needs of the affected communities in Andhra Pradesh."

"We are targeting our efforts at the most vulnerable, in partnership with local NGOs and in close consultation with government authorities and the communities themselves," said Chris Toews, Acting Emergency Response Director at CARE.