New Delhi: As the impending Cyclone Remal threatens to cause damage, Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is gearing up with comprehensive preparatory measures to ensure minimal loss of life and property at sea.
Cyclonic Storm ‘Remal’, originating in central Bay of Bengal, is expected to intensify into a Severe Cyclonic Storm by May 25 and likely to make landfall at North/North-West Bay of Bengal near West Bengal Coast on the intervening night of May 26 and 27.
ICH has been coordinating with concerned state administrations and stakeholders to facilitate a synchronised response to potential contingencies arising from the cyclonic storm, while ICG’s Remote Operating Stations at Haldia and Paradip are broadcasting regular and multilingual Very High Frequency alerts, advising transit merchant mariners to take necessary precautions.
Nine disaster relief teams have been positioned at strategic locations including Odisha’s Paradip and Gopalpur, and West Bengal’s Haldia and Frazerganj. These teams will be ready to provide immediate assistance in the event of an emergency.
Also, ICG ships and aircraft are conducting surveillance along the projected path of cyclonic storm to provide timely assistance and support.
Merchant vessels at anchorages have been alerted, and port authorities have been advised to take appropriate actions. Fishing ban is in force, and Fisheries Department has been cautioned to inform country boats in their respective areas about the developing situation.
ICG has further notified Bangladesh Coast Guard authorities, urging them to undertake necessary preparations and disseminate alerts to fishermen and merchant marine vessels.