Date: June 13, 2023
Cyclone Biparjoy, an extremely severe cyclonic storm, is expected to make landfall on June 15 along the coasts of Gujarat, India, and Pakistan. As the cyclone approaches, authorities in both countries have taken precautionary measures, including evacuating coastal areas and suspending port operations.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that Cyclone Biparjoy weakened on Tuesday into a very severe cyclonic storm. It is currently moving northwards at a speed of five kilometers per hour and is centered approximately 290 km southwest of Gujarat's Porbandar. The cyclone is predicted to cross Gujarat's Saurashtra and Kutch regions, as well as the adjoining Pakistan coasts.
Both India and Pakistan have been actively involved in evacuation efforts to ensure the safety of residents in low-lying coastal areas. The Indian Coast Guard conducted a successful rescue operation, evacuating a 50-member crew from a jack-up rig in Gujarat. In Pakistan, the military has been deployed to assist in the evacuation of around 100,000 people from the low-lying coastal areas in the southern Sindh province, including Karachi, the country's financial capital.
The latest updates reveal that a total of 45 columns of the Army have been prepared for deployment in the affected regions. These columns consist of highly trained personnel equipped with the necessary resources to conduct rescue and relief operations. Additionally, 13 Engineering Task Forces have been deployed to assist in infrastructure restoration, while 14 Medical Teams are ready to provide vital medical aid to those in need.
The impact of Cyclone Biparjoy is already being felt in various regions. Mumbai experienced moderate rainfall, leading to a drop in minimum temperatures. Gujarat's Aravalli district witnessed heavy rain, and high waves, along with gusting winds, battered coastal areas. In addition, disruptions to transportation services have been reported, with the Western Railways canceling 67 trains passing through the affected areas.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel urged citizens to follow instructions and guidelines issued by the authorities and take necessary precautions to minimize property damage. However, authorities have faced challenges with some villagers in coastal Kutch being reluctant to leave their livestock and belongings behind.
International efforts are also underway to ensure preparedness and assistance. Central quick response medical teams have been put on standby to provide emergency care and services. The Indian Army has readied flood relief columns to aid locals in Gujarat after the cyclone's landfall.
As Cyclone Biparjoy approaches, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of the affected population. The cyclone is expected to bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potentially cause significant damage. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and urging residents to adhere to state guidelines and cooperate with the administration for their safety.
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