Assam Government Issues Alerts and Takes Extensive Measures for Cyclone Remal's Impact

Guwahati, May 26, 2024 – The Government of Assam has mobilized extensive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens as Cyclone Remal approaches. The cyclone is set to make landfall on May 26 in West Bengal and Bangladesh before moving northwards towards the Northeast, significantly affecting Assam.

The Indian Meteorological Department has forecasted extremely heavy rainfall over Assam and other Northeastern states on May 27 and 28. Consequently, 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 Red Alert is in place for Chirang, Goalpara, Baksa, Dima Hasao, Cachar, Hailakandi, and Karimganj districts. Squally winds of 40-50 kmph, gusting to 60 kmph, are expected over South Assam and Meghalaya on May 27.

The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) has intensified preparations in collaboration with various departments, agencies, and district administrations. On May 25, nodal officers from ASDMA and the Revenue & DM department convened meetings with all District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs) to review preparedness for Cyclone Remal. Prepositioned National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams are ready in Cachar, Bongaigaon, and Dibrugarh. State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams and fire stations are also on high alert.

ASDMA has directed all DDMAs to regulate the plying of boats in the Brahmaputra River on May 27 and 28, particularly in Dhubri, Goalpara, South Salmara, Bongaigaon, and Barpeta districts, as well as the Barak and Kusiara Rivers in Barak Valley districts. The Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) has ensured the desilting of major river channels like Bharalu, Bahini, Basistha, Mora Bharalu, and Lakhimijan. Super Sucker machines, pumps, and additional manpower have been mobilized to address potential waterlogging in historically affected areas such as Hathigaon-Wireless-Sijubari, Chandmari-GNB Road, and Rukminigaon.

Anticipatory evacuation of vulnerable populations from landslide-prone areas in Guwahati (Kamrup(M)), Kamrup, Dima Hasao, Cachar, Karimganj, Hailakandi, Anglong, and West Karbi Anglong districts is being considered. The Health Department has activated emergency protocols, ensuring the availability of medicines, healthcare staff, and communication channels as per the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and Flood Action Plan.

The Department of Power has established a Central Monitoring Team at the Circle Level and Quick Response Teams under each Sub-Division. The Forest Department and DDMAs have issued notices to inhabitants of illegally encroached areas, advising them to relocate to safer zones. The Panchayat and Rural Development Department is engaging community members, including women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs), for effective response measures.

The Irrigation Department has instructed to keep regulator gates open to ensure the free flow of high floodwater. The Assam Public Works Department (APWD) is monitoring construction activities and areas prone to landslides.

Residents are urged to observe the following precautions:

1. Avoid waterlogged areas and vulnerable structures.

2. Ensure proper drainage in cropped fields and prop up vegetable pandals.

3. Seek shelter during thunderstorms and avoid venturing out unless necessary.

4. Farmers and fishermen should refrain from working in open fields and water bodies.

5. Stay clear of old buildings, trees, and power lines.

6. Prepare emergency kits with essentials and keep important documents safe.

For emergencies, contact 112/1070/1077. Stay updated with local authorities and listen to warning bulletins.

The Government of Assam remains fully prepared to address any challenges posed by Cyclone Remal, prioritizing the safety and well-being of its citizens.