Agartala: As Cyclonic Storm “Remal” looms over the Bay of Bengal, the Tripura government has implemented proactive measures, including the closure of schools, educational institutions, and Anganwadi centres for the next two days. A red alert has been issued for four districts, with heavy rainfall and strong winds expected to lash the region.
Tripura Revenue Department Secretary Brijesh Pandey announced on Sunday that the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has escalated its alert status, anticipating severe weather conditions. Cyclonic Storm “Remal” has intensified into a Severe Cyclonic Storm, with projected maximum sustained wind speeds of 110-120 kmph, gusting up to 135 kmph. Landfall is expected near Khepupara and Sagar Island around 11:00 PM on Sunday night. The forecast predicts heavy rainfall and gusty winds from May 26th to 29th, prompting authorities to prepare for potential hazards.
In response to the IMD’s warnings, Chief Secretary JK Sinha chaired a meeting of the state Disaster Management Authority to assess the situation and implement preemptive measures. Key decisions from the meeting include the closure of schools, educational institutions, and Anganwadi centres on May 27th and 28th, mobilization of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams to Santirbazar to support South Tripura and Gomati Districts, and ensuring the availability of food and essential supplies.
Additionally, coordination efforts with the Transport Department are underway to address public safety concerns, including potential cancellations of flights, trains, and other transports. The Fishery Department has been advised to caution fishermen against entering water bodies from May 26th to 28th to prevent any maritime mishaps.
The Airport Authority of India, Agartala, has announced the cancellation of all flights from Kolkata to Agartala until 9:00 AM on May 27th. However, flights from Delhi, Bangalore, and Guwahati will continue to operate as scheduled.
Pandey assured the availability of over Rs 50 crore for disaster management operations across districts, ensuring sufficient funds for emergency response efforts. MBB Airport Agartala Director KC Meena confirmed that flight cancellations only affect routes between Kolkata and Agartala, with other flights operating normally.
The districts under red alert include West Tripura, Khowai, South Tripura, and Dhalai, while North Tripura and Unakoti are under an orange alert. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and follow safety instructions issued by authorities to mitigate risks associated with Cyclone “Remal”. Further updates will be provided as the situation evolves.
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