The India Meteorological Department, IMD has said that the Severe Cyclonic Storm- Remal is very likely to continue to move nearly northwards and cross Bangladesh and adjoining West Bengal coasts between Sagar Island and Khepupara, close to southwest of Mongla of Bangladesh by midnight today. The IMD said that the Landfall process is likely to commence during next two to three hours. Talking to Akashvani News, DG, NDRF, Piyush Anand said that the maximum sustained wind speed of cyclone will be 110-120 kilometer per hour gusting to 135 kilometer per hour.
West Bengal Government is taking comprehensive relief and rehabilitation measures in view of Cyclone Remal, which is expected to make a landfall between Khepupara in Bangladesh and the Sagar Islands in Bengal midnight tonight. A special control room has been set up in the state secretariat, Nabanna. An ‘Integrated Control Room’ has also started working in Kolkata police headquarters to deal with the possible disaster. Kolkata Airport authorities have decided to suspend flight operations for 21 hours from today noon in view of the possible impact of the cyclone.
In Tripura, the rainfall is expected to start from tonight and is likely to continue for two days under the influence of Remal. Advisories have been issued to District Magistrates and Collectors for taking up preparatory measures. Emergency Operation Centres at the State and District levels are functioning for 24×7 basis. The State officials have decided that the schools, educational institutions and anganwadi centres will be closed tomorrow and the day after. Transport Department has been advised to coordinate with Railways, Airport Authority and Road Transports for public safety.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today chaired a meeting to review response and preparedness for Cyclone Remal. Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister Dr P K Mishra, Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba , Union Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Director General, IMD Dr M Mohapatra were among those attended the meeting.
Meanwhile, the Indian Navy has also initiated preparatory actions to provide immediate and effective assistance in the wake of Cyclone Remal. It has readied two ships equipped with humanitarian assistance and disaster relief response and medical supplies for immediate deployment to ensure the safety and welfare of the affected populace. Additionally, Indian Naval aviation assets, including Sea King and Chetak helicopters as well as Dornier aircrafts, are on standby for rapid response.
In neighbouring Bangladesh, nearly eight lakh people have been evacuated from vulnerable areas. official sources said in Dhaka, volunteers have been deployed to evacuate people to 4000 cyclone shelters across the country’s coastal region.
