Cyclone Biparjoy expected to cause heavy damage; IMD issues red alert
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Saurashtra, Dwarka, and Kutch coasts in Gujarat due to the presence of the very severe cyclonic storm Biparjoy.
The cyclonic storm is anticipated to result in extensive damage on Wednesday (June 14), and a warning for heavy rainfall has been issued for multiple states. The authorities are closely monitoring the situation and urging residents in the affected areas to take necessary precautions and stay safe.
Also read: Cyclone Biparjoy: 37,800 evacuated in coastal Gujarat; IMD issues flood warning in 6 districts
The cyclone is expected to hit near Kutch and subsequently move towards Pakistan. On Tuesday (June 13), Cyclone Biparjoy weakened into a very severe cyclonic storm and is currently located approximately 380 kilometres south of Karachi, as it continues to move in a north-northwest direction.
In light of the cyclone’s approach, fishing activities have been suspended, rescue personnel have been deployed, and evacuation plans have been implemented to ensure the safety of those at risk. As a precautionary measure, villagers in Kutch district have used a tractor trolley to evacuate from vulnerable areas.
Also read: Cyclone Biparjoy may cause extensive damage in Gujarat: IMD
According to NDRF DIG (Operations) Mohsen Shahidi, the cyclone is approaching Gujarat and is expected to make landfall on the evening of June 15. In preparation for the cyclone, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed 18 teams, while 13 State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams are also assisting in the relief efforts.
As a precautionary measure, more than 45,000 locals have already been evacuated to safer locations. These actions aim to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents in the cyclone’s path.
It is noteworthy that Cyclone Biparjoy is only the third cyclone to hit the western coast in nearly 60 years. This increased frequency and intensity of cyclones are seen as indicators of the adverse effects of climate change.
As Cyclone Biparjoy is expected to make landfall between Gujarat’s Mandvi and Pakistan’s port city of Karachi on June 15, the Met Department has warned of significant destruction to thatched houses, extensive damage to kutcha houses in several districts, uprooting of power and communication poles, disruption to railways, and potential damage to standing crops, plantations, and orchards.
VIDEO | "The cyclone is on its way to hit Gujarat. The landfall is expected on the evening of June 15. NDRF has deployed 18 teams, along with 13 SDRF teams. Over 45,000 locals have been evacuated so far to safer places," says NDRF DIG (Operations) Mohsen Shahidi on… pic.twitter.com/YekSm3zVXc
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 14, 2023
(With agency inputs)
