Gujarat, India – The very severe cyclonic storm ‘Biparjoy’ has rapidly intensified, now classified as an “extremely severe cyclonic storm,” and is projected to make landfall along the south-southwest Gujarat and adjoining Pakistan coasts. In anticipation of the impending cyclone, authorities have issued alerts along the Saurashtra and Kutch coasts. As the storm’s exact landfall location becomes clearer in the coming days, precautionary measures are being taken to ensure the safety of the affected regions.
Monster Cyclone ‘Biparjoy’ Roars towards Gujarat: Devastation Imminent!
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that sea conditions off the Saurashtra and Kutch coasts will remain “rough to very rough” until Wednesday, escalating to “very rough to high” by Thursday. In Mumbai, the impact of Cyclone Biparjoy was already evident with high tidal waves and heavy rainfall. With these conditions expected to persist, the IMD has advised a complete suspension of fishing operations in the region until June 15. Additionally, fishermen are cautioned against venturing into the central Arabian Sea, the north Arabian Sea from June 12-15, and the Saurashtra-Kutch coasts until June 15. Individuals currently at sea are urged to return to the coast and regulate offshore and onshore activities judiciously.
The IMD has called upon the state governments to closely monitor the situation in their respective areas and take necessary precautionary measures. District authorities have been advised to remain vigilant and prepare for any eventuality as the cyclone approaches.
As of 4:30 pm on Sunday, Cyclone ‘Biparjoy’ was moving northeastward over the east-central Arabian Sea at a speed of 8 kmph. Presently, it is centered approximately 550 km west of Mumbai, 450 km south-southwest of Porbandar, 490 km south-southwest of Dwarka, and 570 km south-southwest of Naliya in Kutch. Further, it is about 750 km south of Karachi in Pakistan. The IMD forecasts that the cyclone will likely cross the Saurashtra and Kutch coasts, between Mandvi in Gujarat and Karachi in Pakistan, around noon on June 15. At the time of landfall, it is expected to be a very severe cyclonic storm, with maximum sustained wind speeds of 125-135 kmph, gusting up to 150 kmph.
Gujarat is preparing for potentially widespread destruction in several districts, including Kutch, Devbhumi Dwarka, Porbandar, Jamnagar, Morbi, Junagarh, and Rajkot. Thatched and kutcha houses are at risk of being demolished, while pucca houses may suffer damage. Power and communication poles could be uprooted, and flying objects pose a potential threat. Transportation systems may be disrupted, and extensive damage to crops, plantations, and orchards is expected. Visibility will be severely impacted, and small boats and crafts are at risk.
The Gujarat government is taking proactive measures to mitigate the impact of Cyclone Biparjoy. NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) and SDRF (State Disaster Response Force) teams are being deployed in coastal areas, and shelter houses are being set up in six districts to accommodate residents within a 5-10 km radius of the coastline. Senior ministers in the state cabinet have been assigned the responsibility of advance planning and disaster management in their respective districts, ensuring guidance and support to local authorities. Various departments, including fisheries, health, and agriculture, are working in coordination to respond effectively to the cyclone.
The Union Home Secretary, Ajay Bhalla, has reviewed the preparedness of the central government and the Gujarat administration in dealing with Cyclone Biparjoy. With a concerted effort, the focus remains on minimizing potential damage and ensuring the safety and well-being of the affected communities.
As Cyclone Biparjoy continues its course towards the Gujarat coast, all stakeholders are urged to stay updated with the latest weather advisories and follow the instructions of local authorities to stay safe during this challenging time.
Disclaimer: This article is based on the latest available information at the time of writing. Please refer to official sources and local authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date details regarding Cyclone Biparjoy.
