Gusty winds accompanied by moderate to heavy showers hit the Saurashtra and Kutch coast of Gujarat on Monday, indicating the impending arrival of Cyclonic Storm Biparjoy. With an "extremely severe" categorization, the cyclone is expected to make landfall on June 15, causing significant impact to the state.
Forecast and Potential Damage
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts that Biparjoy will cross Saurashtra and Kutch, reaching the coasts of Pakistan. The landfall is projected to occur between Mandvi in Kutch and Karachi near Jakhau Port, with wind speeds ranging from 125-135 kmph, gusting up to 150 kmph. The IMD warns of heavy damage in seven districts: Kutch, Devbhumi Dwarka, Porbandar, Jamnagar, Morbi, Junagadh, and Rajkot.
Anticipated Destruction and Disruption
The cyclone is expected to cause extensive damage to infrastructure and residential areas. Thatched houses may be completely destroyed, kutcha houses could suffer significant damage, and even pucca houses may be affected. Flying objects pose a potential threat, and roads, escape routes, and railway systems may face disruption. Standing crops, plantations, orchards, and coconut trees are at risk of damage, and salt spray from the salt pans could impact visibility in the region.
Preparations and Response
The Gujarat government, along with central ministries and agencies, is taking proactive measures to protect the population. Fishermen have been advised to avoid venturing into the sea, and those already at sea have been instructed to return to safety. Evacuation plans have been developed for vulnerable villages, while details of salt pan workers have been compiled for relocation. Adequate shelters, power supply, medicine, and emergency services are being arranged. State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams are being deployed, and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams are on standby. The Coast Guard, Army, and Navy are also prepared with rescue and relief teams, ships, and aircraft. Additionally, the maritime board and relevant stakeholders are receiving regular alerts and advisories, while offshore installations and major ports have been alerted and advised to take preventive measures.
Assistance from Armed Forces
The Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard are actively supporting Gujarat in preparedness, rescue, and restoration efforts. Their assets and personnel are being deployed to assist in the response to Cyclonic Storm Biparjoy.
