Guwahati, 27th May: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has issued a critical warning regarding Cyclone Remal, which is set to bring severe weather to parts of Assam. In a statement on the microblogging site X, Sarma announced that comprehensive precautionary measures are being put in place to protect the populace.
“We are taking several precautionary measures. NDRF & SDRF teams are on standby, control rooms are operational, and we are deploying a whole-of-government approach to keep our citizens safe. Stay safe and please cooperate with your local administration,” Sarma posted.
In preparation for the cyclone, the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) has mobilized extensive strategies to mitigate its impact. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts that Cyclone Remal, after making landfall in West Bengal and Bangladesh, will move northward, significantly affecting Assam with extremely heavy rainfall and strong winds on May 27 and 28.
Several districts have been placed under an Orange Alert, including Dhubri, South Salmara, Bongaigaon, Bajali, Tamulpur, Barpeta, Nalbari, Morigaon, Nagaon, Hojai, and West Karbi Anglong. A more severe Red Alert is in place for Chirang, Goalpara, Baksa, Dima Hasao, Cachar, Hailakandi, and Karimganj, with squally winds expected to reach speeds of 40-50 km/h, gusting up to 60 km/h over South Assam and Meghalaya.
In a press release, the ASDMA detailed the preparedness measures. NDRF teams have been pre-positioned in Cachar, Bongaigaon, and Dibrugarh, and all SDRF teams and fire stations are on high alert. The Guwahati Municipal Corporation has completed desilting major river channels and mobilized additional manpower and equipment to address potential flooding and waterlogging.
Efforts include anticipatory evacuation plans for vulnerable populations in landslide-prone areas, and the health department has activated its flood action plan, ensuring emergency medicines and health staff are ready. The power department has established quick response teams to manage any disruptions, while the forest department has issued notices to residents in illegally encroached areas, urging them to relocate to safer zones. The irrigation department is maintaining open regulator gates to facilitate the free flow of high floodwaters.
Citizens are advised to avoid waterlogged areas, refrain from staying in vulnerable structures, and ensure proper drainage in agricultural fields. Fishermen are warned not to venture into water bodies, and everyone is encouraged to stay indoors during thunderstorms and lightning. The government also recommends keeping emergency supplies and maintaining communication with local authorities.