The Centre and the West Bengal government are on high alert for a severe cyclonic storm Remal brewing in the Bay of Bengal, with Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba directing all efforts towards ensuring "zero loss of lives."
Chairing a meeting of the National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) on Friday, Gauba stressed taking all necessary preventive measures to minimise damage. He directed the state government to prioritise the evacuation of vulnerable populations and ensure fishermen return to safety.
NDRF teams Deployed, rescue services on standby
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) informed the NCMC that the depression is likely to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by Saturday night.
It is expected to make landfall near West Bengal and Bangladesh coasts by late Sunday, bringing heavy rain and wind gusts exceeding 130 kmph.
To prepare for the storm's impact, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed 12 teams in the region, with five more on standby.
The Army, Navy, and Coast Guard have also mobilised rescue and relief teams with ships and aircraft at the ready.
West Bengal gears up for evacuation and relief
The West Bengal government has assured the Centre of its preparedness.
The Chief Secretary informed the NCMC about the activation of district control rooms, stocking of essential supplies in shelters, and measures taken to ensure uninterrupted power and communication services.
Evacuation efforts are underway in vulnerable coastal areas, and fishermen have been warned to stay ashore.
Focus on minimising disruption and speedy recovery
The NCMC meeting saw participation from key central ministries and agencies, including Power, Telecom, Ports, and Fisheries.
Emergency response teams from the Power Ministry are deployed to ensure swift restoration of electricity in case of disruptions.
Measures include advisories against sea ventures for fishermen, activation of district control rooms, and the provision of emergency shelters, power, medicine, and other essential services.
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed 12 teams, with five additional units on standby.
Furthermore, rescue and relief teams from the Army, Navy, and Coast Guard, along with ships and aircraft, are poised for action.
Regular alerts have been dispatched to the ports of Kolkata and Paradip, and emergency power restoration teams have been mobilised.
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