Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma has issued an urgent warning regarding the impending Cyclone Remal, which is expected to bring severe weather conditions to parts of Assam. In a statement posted on X, he assured that extensive precautionary measures are being taken to protect the people.
“We are taking several precautionary measures. NDRF and 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,” posted CM Himanta.
The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) has mobilised comprehensive strategies to mitigate the cyclone’s impact. According to the Indian Meteorological Department, Cyclone Remal is expected to make landfall in West Bengal and Bangladesh before moving northwards, significantly affecting Assam with extremely heavy rainfall and strong winds on May 27 and 28.
An Orange Alert has been issued for several districts, 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.
ASDMA has detailed its preparedness measures in a press release. 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 the desilting of major river channels and mobilised additional manpower and equipment to tackle potential flooding and waterlogging.
Preparations include anticipatory evacuation plans for vulnerable populations in landslide-prone areas. The Health department has activated its flood action plan, ensuring emergency medicines and health staffs 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.
