Cyclone Remal, previously a formidable force wreaking havoc along the coasts of West Bengal and Bangladesh, has now been downgraded to a depression hovering over eastern Bangladesh, as confirmed by the India Meteorological Department on Tuesday. Despite this downgrade, the repercussions of the storm persist, evidenced by widespread reports of infrastructural and property damage emanating from the affected regions.
As Cyclone Remal gradually loses its intensity and moves further eastward, meteorologists anticipate its weakening to continue over the ensuing 12 hours. Nevertheless, heavy rainfall is predicted to persist across various parts of West Bengal, including the bustling metropolis of Kolkata, extending until the following day.
The destructive force of Cyclone Remal was first felt on Sunday evening, as it made landfall, unleashing ferocious winds and torrential downpours along the coastal stretch spanning from Sagar Island in India to Khepupara near Mongla in Bangladesh. After its landfall, the cyclone left a trail of devastation on both sides of the border, marking its presence with tales of destruction and loss.
Official reports confirm at least six fatalities attributed to the cyclone's wrath - one casualty in Kolkata, two women in the South 24 Parganas district, one in Panihati within the North 24 Parganas district, and a father-son duo in Memari situated in Purba Medinipur.
The coastal areas bore the brunt of Cyclone Remal's fury, with wind speeds exceeding 135 kmph wreaking havoc on residential structures, roads, and power infrastructure. In West Bengal alone, nearly 29,500 houses, predominantly in the southern regions, suffered partial or complete destruction. Additionally, over 2,140 trees were uprooted, and approximately 1,700 electric poles succumbed to the force of the tempest.
Preliminary assessments indicate that the majority of the damage was inflicted upon partially collapsed houses, albeit a smaller proportion faced complete demolition. Among the severely affected areas are Kakdwip, Namkhana, Sagar Island, Diamond Harbour, Fraserganj, Bakkhali, and Mandarmani.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has extended reassurance to affected residents, pledging the government's unwavering support during these trying times. She conveyed her heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and announced her intentions to personally visit the afflicted regions once the situation stabilizes.
Concerted relief efforts are currently underway to aid those impacted by the cyclone's aftermath. Banerjee emphasized the plight of those whose mud dwellings crumbled and crops were decimated, vowing to undertake requisite measures to alleviate their plight.
