The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an ORANGE ALERT for coastal areas along the northwest as the ‘Biparjoy’ cyclonic storm rapidly intensifies into a severe cyclonic storm. In response, authorities are taking proactive measures to reduce the impact of the approaching cyclone in Gujarat’s coastal districts. Evacuation of residents and the suspension of activities in port areas are underway. Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducted a meeting to review the situation and instructed officials to take every possible measure to ensure the safe evacuation of people residing in vulnerable locations.
The IMD forecasts that the “extremely severe cyclonic storm” will move north-northeast and cross Saurashtra and Kutch, along with the adjoining Pakistan coasts between Mandvi (Gujarat) and Karachi (Pakistan), by June 15 noon with sustained wind speeds of 125-135 kilometers per hour (mph), gusting to 150 mph. Efforts to evacuate residents are in progress, with approximately 7,500 individuals already shifted to safer locations from low-lying areas near the coast. The evacuation process will be carried out in two phases, beginning on Tuesday. The first phase will involve the relocation of people residing within 0 to 5 km of the seashore, followed by those residing within 5 to 10 km. Priority will be given to children, pregnant women, and the elderly.
Precautionary Measures for Upcoming Gujarat Cyclone
Here are some of the precautionary measures taken by the government to reduce the effects of the cyclone.
- Precautionary measures are being taken to secure infrastructure and assets in the region.
- Deendayal Port at Kandla in the Kutch district has been closed, and all boats, crafts, and barges have been securely anchored.
- A 24×7 control room has been established to monitor the situation closely.
- 7,500 people are already shifted to safer locations from low-lying areas near the coast.
- The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Indian Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force, and Army have mobilized their teams
- Resources for relief, search, rescue, and surveillance operations are established.
The upcoming Gujarat cyclone is anticipated to have the longest lifespan in the Arabian Sea, with a projected duration of approximately seven days and 12 hours. It will be the third Gujarat cyclone to hit in June since 1965. The IMD has provided historical data on cyclones in the region, highlighting the significance of the impending event.
You can check the Cyclone Biparjoy Live updates on Zoom Earth.
Railway Restrictions for Biparjoy Cyclone
In response to the cyclone’s approach, the Western Railway has short-terminated more than 50 trains heading towards the coastal areas of Gujarat. The railway authority is also considering the cancellation of several trains over the next three days to ensure passenger safety. With the cyclone expected to impact Sindh’s coastal regions in Pakistan, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has put the concerned authorities on high alert. Pakistan is preparing for strong winds, rains, and potential floods along the coast.
As the cyclonic storm ‘Biparjoy’ approaches, the government and disaster management agencies are leaving no stone unturned to ensure the safety of residents and minimize the impact on the affected regions. Continuous monitoring and proactive measures will play a crucial role in reducing the potential risks associated with these severe weather conditions. It is advised to avoid travelling during the cyclone and also if you’re planning to visit any of the cyclone affected states follow the travel advisory issued for cyclone Biparjoy and try to reschedule your trip. Stay alert and stay safe.
