India Meteorological Department (IMD) today said that the “Deep Depression” over the East-central Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a cyclonic storm by today evening. The IMD in a statement said, cyclone Remal is likely to cross between the Bangladesh and West Bengal coasts tomorrow midnight and become a severe cyclonic storm. In view of this, heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely to occur in West Bengal. Coastal areas of North Odisha can witness isolated heavy rainfall. An extreme rainfall warning has also been issued in some areas of northeastern states.
The National Crisis Management Committee yesterday held a meeting under the chairmanship of Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba to review preparedness for the impending cyclone. The Chief Secretary of West Bengal apprised the Committee of the preparatory measures being taken to protect the population in the expected path of the cyclonic storm and measures being taken by the local administration. Fishermen have been asked not to venture out into the sea. District Control Rooms have also been activated and are monitoring the situation.
Adequate shelters, power supply, medicine and emergency services have been kept in readiness.
The National Disaster Response Force has deployed 12 teams and 5 additional teams are kept on standby. Rescue and relief teams of the Army, Navy and Coast Guard along with ships and aircrafts have been kept in readiness. Emergency teams have been deployed by Ministry of Power for immediate power restoration.
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has also taken proactive steps to prepare for Cyclonic Storm ‘Remal’. Nine disaster relief teams have been deployed at strategic locations to minimize potential loss of life and property at sea.