Cyclone Biporjoy Weakens, Leaves a Trail of Destruction in Gujarat and Rajasthan

In a recent bout of severe weather conditions, Cyclone Biporjoy wreaked havoc along the west coast of India, making landfall in Gujarat on June 15. The cyclone, which originated in the Arabian Sea, led to widespread damage and disruptions in several districts of Gujarat and Rajasthan. Despite the destructive force of the cyclone, prompt response efforts by authorities and relief teams helped minimize the loss of life. Let us delve into the details of this calamity and the subsequent recovery efforts.

 

Cyclone Biporjoy made landfall on June 15, approximately 10 km north of the Jakhau Port in Kutch, Gujarat. The cyclone’s approach triggered precautionary measures, resulting in the partial cancellation of train services by the Western Railways. However, as the cyclone weakened into a “deep depression,” the intensity of the rainfall diminished, thereby reducing the threat posed by the cyclonic system.

 

Gujarat’s coastal areas bore the brunt of the storm, with strong winds uprooting several trees in Bhuj and Kutch. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) swiftly initiated clearance operations to restore normalcy. The power supply in Jamnagar district was disrupted due to the cyclone, affecting numerous villages. However, the Paschim Gujarat Vij Company Limited (PGVCL) teams worked diligently to rectify the issue, and power was gradually restored.

 

The NDRF’s efforts in evacuating civilians from vulnerable areas played a crucial role in ensuring their safety. In Rupen Bandar Government Primary School, 127 individuals were successfully relocated to NDH School Dwarka, consisting of 82 men, 27 women, and 15 children. Fortunately, no loss of life was reported following the cyclone’s landfall in Gujarat.

 

Mr. Amit Shah, India’s Union Minister of Home Affairs, visited the affected regions in Gujarat, including Kathda village in Mandvi, where he interacted with the local population. Additionally, he met with personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) in the Kachchh district. Accompanied by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Mr. Shah conducted an aerial survey to assess the extent of damage caused by the cyclone.

 

After making landfall in Gujarat, Cyclone Biporjoy progressed northeastward, entering Rajasthan through Jalore and Barmer on June 16. The meteorological center in Jaipur confirmed that the cyclone had weakened into a “deep depression” as it traversed the state. As a result, heavy showers engulfed several regions of Rajasthan, causing waterlogging and disruptions.

 

Rainfall measurements from various locations in Rajasthan indicate the intensity of the cyclone’s impact. Mount Abu received 210 mm of rainfall in a 24-hour period, while Sedwa in Barmer recorded 136 mm. Other areas affected include Mount Abu tehsil with 135 mm, Raniwada in Jalore with 110 mm, and Bidasaria in Churu with 76 mm. The meteorological department issued a “Red Alert” for Barmer, Jalore, and Sirohi districts, and an “Orange Alert” for Pali and Jodhpur.

 

As a precautionary measure, the North Western Railways canceled 13 train services, including the Amritsar-Gandhidham Express, Jodhpur-Bhildi Express, Valsad-Bhildi Express, and Barmer-Munabav Express. This decision aimed to ensure the safety of passengers and avoid any potential mishaps due to the adverse weather conditions.

 

Cyclone Biporjoy’s landfall in Gujarat and subsequent movement into Rajasthan caused significant disruptions and damage in the affected regions. Prompt response efforts by the NDRF, along with the coordinated actions of various departments, ensured the safety and well-being of the population. As the cyclone weakened into a “depression,” the threat gradually subsided. However, the impact of heavy rainfall and subsequent waterlogging necessitated precautions and relief measures. The affected areas, both in Gujarat and Rajasthan, continue their journey toward recovery, with authorities and relief teams working tirelessly to restore normalcy.