Kolkata, West Bengal’s capital, is experiencing heavy rain and strong winds following the commencement of severe cyclonic storm ‘Remal’ landfall on Sunday evening between the coasts of West Bengal and Bangladesh, with wind speeds reaching 110 to 120 kmph, gusting up to 135 kmph.
Outside the Raj Bhavan, visuals depict heavy rainfall and strong gusts battering the city. According to the IMD, the Severe Cyclonic Storm “Remal” is currently positioned over the North Bay of Bengal, approximately 110 km east of Sagar Islands (West Bengal), and is expected to move nearly northwards to cross Bangladesh and adjoining West Bengal coasts between Sagar Island and Khepupara in the next 3 hours.
Speaking about the cyclonic storm’s landfall, Somnath Dutta, the Eastern Region Head of IMD Kolkata, stated, “The landfall process started at 8:30 pm… over the Bangladesh and West Bengal coast. As per the observation at 10:30 pm, it shows that the landfall process is continuing… by 12:30 am the landfall process will be complete.”
Amid heavy rains and strong winds, visuals from Sagar Island show NDRF teams clearing roads after trees were uprooted, indicating the impact of the storm.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting ahead of the impending landfall to review preparedness. The Prime Minister emphasized the need for continuous support to the West Bengal government and instructed the Ministry of Home Affairs to monitor the situation closely. Additionally, he directed the deployment of additional NDRF teams and urged heightened vigilance by Ports, Railways, and Highways to prevent any untoward incidents.
West Bengal Governor Ananda Bose convened an emergency review meeting, establishing a task force at Raj Bhawan to assist the public. Raj Bhawan stands ready to provide safe accommodation and support to those in need during this challenging time.
