The state government in West Bengal has issued an alert in view of the landfall of “very severe” cyclone Yaas – likely to make landfall on Wednesday.
Exactly a year ago, Kolkata and several parts of south Bengal were devastated by Cyclone Amphan. Has Kolkata learnt from the past experience? Is the city better prepared this time? The state administration and police have been preparing to handle the situation. The entire coastal area has been identified as vulnerable area and evacuation has been initiated. Also, people are being warned through public announcements to not venture anywhere close to the coastline.
Chief minister Mamata Banerjee held a meeting earlier in the day with Union Home Minister Amit Shah on the preparedness.
The police authorities have been asked to ensure there is enough food supply of basic food items in local stores so that after the storm lashes, there is no shortage of food. There are four boats kept ready for Kolkata to rescue people in case they are stuck after the storm and rainfall. The civil defence department authorities are also preparing for the impending storm. There are 300 civic volunteers ready for taking up the rescue and relief work.
There are 35 NDRF teams for the state, and out of this, 10 teams are in Kolkata. The Kolkata Police too has five teams prepared to handle to impending cyclone and its aftermath. The Kolkata Police also has quick response teams that can reach affected areas immediately as soon as emergency situations arise. Ambulance, Kolkata Municipal Corporation teams to cut trees and CESC teams for power restoration in order to take measures on urgent basis, are also being prepared.
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