cyclone storm hits in Gujarat
Cyclonic storm Biparjoy wreaked havoc in the Sauarashtra-Kutch region after hitting the land on Thursday evening at approximately 6:30 pm, with wind speeds ranging from 115 to 125 kmph.
According to officials, at least 22 individuals were injured, and the strong winds caused extensive uprooting of trees, leading to power supply disruptions in around 940 villages. Additionally, low-lying coastal areas experienced flooding.
Relief Commissioner Alok Pandey reported that 20 electricity poles and 524 trees fell in over 900 villages in Kutch and Saurashtra. In Dwarka, the highest number of fallen trees was recorded, but no casualties have been reported thus far. The cyclonic storm also claimed the lives of 23 animals.
The Kutch region continues to face the impact of Biparjoy, with gusty winds and rainfall persisting on Friday morning throughout this border district.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), cyclone Biparjoy has weakened into a cyclonic storm and is expected to further downgrade to a depression over south Rajasthan on Friday.
IMD Director Mrutyunjay Mohapatra stated, “Cyclone Biporjoy moved northeastwards and crossed the Saurashtra-Kutch coastline near the Jakhau port, Gujarat, adjacent to Pakistan. It has transitioned from a very severe cyclonic storm (VSCS) to a severe cyclonic storm (SCS). Rajasthan may experience heavy rainfall on June 16.”
The IMD forecasted that Cyclone Biparjoy will continue to affect the regional weather for the next 24-48 hours, leading to extremely heavy rains in parts of Northern Gujarat and Southern Rajasthan.
Following the weakening of the cyclonic storm, Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel announced, “As of now, there have been no casualties in the Kachchh district due to cyclone Biparjoy.” He also mentioned ongoing efforts to clear roads in several coastal districts.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a telephonic conversation with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Thursday night to inquire about the situation in the state after the powerful cyclone ‘Biparjoy’ made landfall. The Prime Minister specifically asked about the measures taken by the state administration to ensure the safety of wildlife, particularly the lions in the Gir forest.