Modi to do aerial survey of Amphan-hit Bengal, Odisha

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake an aerial survey of the cyclone-hit areas in West Bengal and Odisha and assess the damage caused by cyclone Amphan on Friday (May 21), official sources said.

Cyclone Amphan tore into West Bengal, leaving 72 people dead and thousands homeless. It battered several parts of the state — including Kolkata, Howrah, East Midnapur, North and South 25 Parganas districts — washed away buildings, swamped low-lying areas, destroyed property, and damaged power and telecom infrastructure.

Amphan also wreaked havoc in Odisha, causing similar damage in several coastal districts. Officials in Odisha estimated that more than 44.8 lakh people in the state had been affected due to the cyclone.

Related news | Capturing the trail of destruction left by cyclone Amphan in Bengal

Due to the damage to telecom infrastructure in both states, people faced difficulties with power and water supply, internet services, and connectivity in general.

West Bengal Mamata Banerjee had earlier on Thursday (May 21) asked Prime Minister Modi to visit the cyclone-affected areas in the state after a review meeting.

“I have never witnessed such a fierce cyclone and destruction in my life. I would request Prime Minister Narendra Modi to come and visit cyclone Amphan-affected areas,” NDTV quoted Banerjee as saying.

The Prime Minister had also said on Twitter on May 21 morning that the nation stood with those affected by the cylcone, and that “no stone will be left unturned” with regard to helping out those in need.

NDRF teams are working in the cyclone affected parts. Top officials are closely monitoring the situation and also working in close coordination with the West Bengal government.

No stone will be left unturned in helping the affected.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 21, 2020

Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah had reportedly spoken to Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Banerjee and assured them of help.