OVER 40,000 people have been evacuated from coastal regions in India and Pakistan as Cyclone Biparjoy, a “very severe cyclonic storm,” threatens their densely populated coastlines. The storm is expected to bring gales of up to 150 kilometers per hour or 93 miles per hour.
Tragically, heavy rains and storms preceding the cyclone have already claimed the lives of seven individuals in India’s Gujarat and Maharashtra states, including children.
The storm is predicted to make landfall near the Indian port of Jakhau on Thursday evening.
To ensure the safety of residents, Gujarat officials have evacuated at least 20,000 people, while authorities in Pakistan’s Sindh province have evacuated a similar number. Pakistan’s army and civil authorities aim to evacuate a total of 80,000 people.
Fishing activities have been suspended, gatherings along the coastlines banned, and all ports, including Mundra and Kandla, closed as a precautionary measure. Tragic incidents have already occurred, with casualties including collapsed walls, falling trees, and drowning.
Scientists warn that the intensity of tropical cyclones is increasing due to human-induced climate change.
The Indian Ocean, experiencing rapid sea surface warming, poses a significant threat to coastal populations.
In the face of these challenges, proactive measures and adequate preparations are crucial to safeguard lives and minimize the impact of such natural disasters.
