Chennai, Dec 5 (IANS) At least eight people have died in Tamil Nadu due to the severe cyclonic storm Michaung, which has also led to inundation of arterial roads roads and subways in Chennai and other major cities of the state, authorities said on Tuesday.

The authorities said that families have been evacuated from the affected areas, while pregant women, children and elderly people were rescued from the danger zones.

On Tuesday morning, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin conducted an inspection of the cyclone-hit regions, monitored the rescue operations and facilities extended to the affected people.

He said that the impact, in terms of loss of life, has been reduced to a great extent due to precautionary measures, systematic improvements, and comprehensive structural preparations.

He also visited a relief camp set up in Kannappar Thidal, Chennai.

Rescue and relief works are being carried out on a war footing.

Chennai was spared extensive damage due to the stormwater drain projects implemented by the DMK government.

Despite heavy rain, the damages are less compared to previous times, according to Stalin.

Approximately 5,000 workers from different parts of Tamil Nadu have been deployed to Chennai to carry out relief work.

At least 162 relief centres are currently operating across the state, with 43 of them in Chennai.

Food is beingsupplied from the 20 kitchens operational in the state capital.

Meanwhile, flight services have resumed at Chennai airport after remaining suspended on Monday to the cyclone's impact.

Airport staff have however, been advised to remain vigilant.

SURAT - The ongoing Cyclone Biparjoy continues to unleash its fury across many districts of Gujarat, resulting in an alarming incident that left onlookers shocked in Surat. The intense winds, persisting for the last five days, have led to uprooted trees and airborne debris, culminating in an unexpected incident where a water tank was blown off a rooftop and onto a young man and a girl.

CCTV footage captured the chilling scene in Surat's Bhestan area, where wind speeds have been averaging 35 to 45 kilometers per hour over the past two days. Amidst falling trees and swirling leaves, a plastic water tank perched atop a residential building was dislodged by the gusts, crashing down onto a passing young man in an event beyond anyone's imagination.

Despite the startling incident, the young man was fortunately spared severe injury due to the empty state of the tank, which lessened its weight. His companion, a girl seen strolling alongside him in the video, managed to evade the falling debris miraculously.

Bystanders rushed to the scene when they witnessed the incident. Alerted by the cries of a nearby onlooker, they quickly mobilized to lift the plastic tank and rescue the young man trapped beneath. Though spared a major injury, he suffered minor wounds to his head and back and was subsequently transported to a private hospital for treatment.

This episode serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of Cyclone Biparjoy's wrath, leading to widespread caution and preparation amongst the affected residents.

AHMEDABAD, June 17 - Union Home Minister Amit Shah embarked on a comprehensive survey of the cyclone-stricken areas in Gujarat's Kutch district and beyond on Saturday, aiming to evaluate the damage wrought by the devastating Cyclone Biparjoy. Alongside him was Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, jointly seeking crucial information on the disaster's aftermath from various governmental agencies.

Arriving in Bhuj at noon, Shah promptly proceeded to the Jakhau Coast Guard's helipad, the starting point for an aerial overview of the impacted districts. This included Kutch, one of the nine districts most severely affected by the calamity. Throughout this expedition, Chief Minister Patel remained at Shah's side, collectively gathering data on the extent of the disaster.

Following the aerial reconnaissance, Minister Shah visited the Mandvi Civil Hospital, demonstrating his concern for the victims of the cyclone. He personally interacted with the injured, inquiring about their well-being and a unique situation concerning a woman who gave birth amidst the cyclonic turmoil. The minister was also briefed about the substantial losses incurred by the local agricultural and fishing industries due to the storm.

In the wake of Cyclone Biparjoy, the state government has pledged to dispense emergency financial aid to those displaced by the disaster. This initiative aims to distribute funds to all affected individuals within the upcoming three days. Previously, post-storm damage had been assessed by district collectors via video conferencing, a report that Chief Minister Patel shared in detail with the Union Home Minister. The current visit serves to further refine the government's understanding and response to the natural disaster.

Kutch, June 17 (IANS) In the aftermath of cyclone Biparjoy wreaking a havoc, administrative systems are operating to restore essential services in the disaster-stricken talukas of Kutch district.

There is waterlogging in some areas with uprooted trees and snapped wires. Electricity is yet to be restored in some areas of Kutch and Saurashtra where some roads are still blocked. A recent visit by State Health Minister Rushikesh Patel and in-charge Minister Praful Pansheriya offered a hands-on overview of the ongoing relief operations.

During their tour of Bhuj, the main hub of Kutch, the ministers conducted a review of the restoration efforts underway by the Paschim Gujarat Vij Company Ltd (PGVCL) personnel at the Commerce College and along the Khari River Road. They provided critical directives to the ground teams and emphasised the swift re-establishment of power supply in the affected areas, considering it a matter of priority.

Among others present during this vital inspection were MP Vinodbhai Chavda, MLA Keshubhai Patel, In-charge Secretary Harshad Patel, MD of PGVCL Preeti Sharma, and associated officials.

Gandhinagar, June 17 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to visit regions of Gujarat on Saturday to assess the damage caused by the recent cyclone Biparjpoy in the state.

His visit comes two days after the severe cyclonic storm 'Biparjoy' made a landfall in the coastal districts of the state. Shah's agenda includes a stop at the Jakhau port in Kutch district, where he will interact with evacuees currently housed in temporary shelters.

The landfall of cyclone Biparjoy led to substantial rain, resulting in widespread waterlogging in the Mandvi region of Kutch district. Shah is slated to engage with the storm-affected residents of Mandvi.

While in his home state, Shah will also scrutinize the relief efforts underway in the Bhuj district. His visit will incorporate a meeting with Gujarat's Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, along with other high-ranking state government officials.

Cyclone Biparjoy struck the Saurashtra-Kutch coast near Jakhau Port late Thursday night as an extremely severe cyclonic storm, delivering winds of 115-125 kmph. This led to significant disruptions to power and communication lines in the coastal districts. Notably, the cyclone resulted in many trees being uprooted in Bhuj, Kutch. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) began clearance operations on Friday.

Cyclone Biparjoy, having gradually weakened from a severe cyclonic storm to a cyclonic storm, and finally to a deep depression by Friday evening, was positioned over Southwest Rajasthan, neighboring Gujarat, and Southeast Pakistan, and was roughly 130 km northeast of Dholavira as of this morning.

AHMEDABAD - As Cyclone Biparjoy ravaged Gujarat's coastline, a glimmer of hope emerged amidst the turmoil. A local woman, displaced by the cyclone, decided to name her newborn daughter 'Biparjoy', symbolizing resilience and endurance amidst adversity.

Biparjoy, a one-month-old infant, was named after the cyclone that struck the Kutch coast last Thursday evening, forcing the family to evacuate their home. The family is now living in a temporary shelter home in Jakhau within Kutch district, along with more than 70,000 other residents who have been relocated for safety reasons.

The practice of naming children after storms or significant events isn't novel in India. In recent years, children have been christened with names like Titli, Fani, and Gulab Toofan - all reminiscent of past cyclones. The tradition extends beyond weather events, too. During the recent global pandemic, a family from UP's Gorakhpur district named their daughter Corona, while in Andhra's Cuddapah district, two children were given the same name. The gesture was symbolic, representing unity in the face of the global crisis.

This year's cyclonic name, 'Biparjoy', was proposed by Bangladesh and approved by the World Meteorological Organisation. The Meteorological Agency predicts that the impact of such storms can persist for a week or more, with Cyclone Biparjoy likely to affect the region for another two to three days.

In a similar vein, a family from Rajasthan, who found themselves stranded in Tripura during the nationwide lockdown, named their son 'Lockdown'. Another family travelling from Mumbai to UP onboard a train during the lockdown named their newborn 'Lockdown' as well, highlighting the continued tradition of drawing inspiration from current events when naming offspring.

Gandhinagar, June 16 (IANS) Cyclone Biparjoy, noted for its strong winds and torrential rainfall, left a devastating trail after making a landfall across Gujarat's Kutch district.

As the cyclone gradually weakened on its northward trajectory, it had already disrupted everyday life on an unprecedented scale. Uprooted trees, injuries to 23 people, and extensive power failures marked its ferocity as it made landfall on Gujarat's coasts on Thursday evening.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) reported two casualties preceding the cyclone's arrival. A father-son cattle-rearing duo died while attempting to save their trapped goats from a flooded ravine in Bhavnagar district the same day.

Gujarat's relief commissioner, Alok Singh confirmed that the cyclone has resulted in 24 animal fatalities, 524 toppled trees, and a slew of damaged electric poles resulting in power outages across 940 villages.

Morbi district clocking over 115-120 kilometers per hour and heavy rainfall, witnessed over 300 electric poles being destroyed. This damage led to power outages across 45 villages, as the cyclone made its aggressive landfall on Thursday evening.

Paschim Gujarat Vij Company Limited (PGVCL) officials confirm that efforts to restore power are in full swing in nine of the affected villages.

With Biparjoy now losing strength, Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel reported no casualties in the Kutch district.

He further stated that road clearance operations are being carried out across several parts of the coastal districts. He said, "We are analysing the situation at the Control room in Kutch. No need to worry, the government is making every effort to bring things to normal."

In preparation for Biparjoy's anticipated landfall, over 180,000 individuals were relocated to safer zones, indicating the severity of the cyclone's expected impact.

Kutch, June 16 (IANS) The very severe cyclonic storm Biparjoy, currently over Saurashtra and Kutch which moved northeastwards with a speed of 13 kmph during the past six hours, will weaken significantly on Friday.

It is currently situated approximately 40 km northeast of the Jakhau Port and 30 km north of Naliya.

The cyclone's intensity has lessened as it is now turning into a depression and very likely to move northeastwards across north Gujarat by Friday evening.

As per the forecast, as of 9 a.m. Biparjoy ihas been reduced to a deep depression with a maximum sustained surface wind speed of 50-60 kmph, gusting to 70 kmph.

By 5.30 p.m. on Friday evening, it is expected to weaken into a depression with wind speeds between 35-45 kmph, gusting to 55 kmph.

Meanwhile, a rainfall warning remains in place with light to moderate downpour expected at most places, accompanied by heavy to extremely heavy showers at isolated locations over Saurashtra and Kutch, north Gujaratand south Rajasthan on Friday.

Southeast Rajasthan and the adjoining north Gujarat region can also expect heavy rainfall on Saturday.

Wind warning is still active for the northeast and eastcentral Arabian Sea. Gale winds are expected to decrease gradually to squally wind speed reaching 50-60 kmph gusting to 70 kmph.

The squally wind speed reaching 40-50 kmph gusting to 60 kmph is likely to prevail till Friday noon.

The sea condition is very high over the northeast Arabian Sea, which would improve gradually and become rough by noon.

Extensive damage is expected in Kutch, Devbhumi Dwarka, Porbandar, Jamnagar, Morbi, Junagarh and Rajkot districts, including potential threats from flying objects, major damage to roads, and disruption of railways and power lines.

The fishermen warning is also still in effect, recommending total suspension of fishing operations over the northeast and adjoining east-central Arabian Sea till Saturday morning.

Additionally, people in affected areas are also advised to remain indoors.

The storm is likely to cause damage in the interior districts of Saurashtra and north Gujarat region as well, including damage to roads, water logging and flooding in low lying areas and uprooting of trees.

Kutch, June 15 (IANS) As the threat of Cyclone Biparjoy hitting the coasts near Jakhau in Gujarat intensifies with potential landfall expected by the Thursday evening, the Border Security Force (BSF) deployed along the coastal areas has stepped forward to assist the villagers of the area.

In these crucial moments, the BSF camps have turned into shelters for villagers seeking refuge from the impending storm. Approximately 150 villagers from Thumri and Walawarivand have taken shelter in the BSF camps, including senior citizens, children, men and women.

The BSF has not only provided a safe haven, but has also organised for the essential needs of the villagers. Hygiene standards are being maintained at the camps, and provisions for drinking water, food, and medical services have been made available to all the sheltered villagers.

The BSF has formed quick response teams, outfitted with lifesaving resources. These teams stand ready to assist the civilians in the aftermath of the cyclone.

Kutch, June 15 (IANS) As Cyclone Biparjoy continued its path in the North-East direction, it is expected to make a landfall along the coast of Kutch Thursday evening.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that Kutch district will bear the brunt of the cyclone, and experience heavy rainfall and gusty winds.

As of now, the Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Biparjoy is approximately 170 km away from Jakhau Port, according to the IMD data.

A red alert has been issued for the Saurashtra and Kutch coasts, warning of the cyclone's approach.

The IMD predicts that Biparjoy will make landfall near Jakhau Port this evening. The authorities have alerted residents about the potential risks associated with the cyclone, including damage to structures, uprooted trees and heavy rainfall.

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel chaired a review meeting at the State Emergency Operation Center in Gandhinagar this morning to assess the preparedness and response plans for the cyclone impact. The government is working in tandem with the IMD to mitigate the potential impact of the cyclone and ensure the safety of its residents.

All flights have been suspended at Jamnagar Airport. The airport authorities have completed the necessary preparations to tackle cyclone Biparjoy. Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) has been issued until June 16, and all flights will remain suspended from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Fuel reserves have been stocked up to ensure smooth operations during emergencies.

The state government has been actively involved in the evacuation efforts, with over 94,000 people already moved to safer locations along the cyclone's path. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating the rescue operations. Inspector General (IG) N.S. Bundela provided this update, highlighting the government's commitment to safeguarding lives.

Jaipur, June 15 (IANS) Authorities have issued a 'red' alert for parts of Rajasthan as it will receive heavy to very heavy rain on Friday and Saturday in the wake of cyclone Biparjoy.

The 'red' alert has been issued for Barmer and Jalore for Friday, and Jodhpur, Pali and Nagaur for Saturday

Meanwhile, an 'orange' alert has been issued in Rajsamand Friday, while it will come to effect in Jaipur, Ajmer, Tonk and Nagaur on Saturday.

On Wednesday evening, the state Chief Secretary held a meeting with all district collectors of the state and reviewed the preparations.

For relief and rescue, nine companies of the SDRF, NDRF have been deployed in different districts.

While eight companies of SDRF will remain in Jaipur, Kota, Bharatpur, Udaipur, Ajmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner, one company of the NDRF has been deployed in Ajmer.

Instructions have been given to evacuate people from low-lying waterlogged areas in Barmer and Jalore districts.

Meanwhile, the state government has banned adventure activities and tourist trips from Friday to Sunday in the districts under the red and orange alerts.

Late Wednesday night, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot also reviewed the preparations made to deal with the calamity arising out of the cyclone by holding a high-level meeting with the officials.

Cyclone Biparjoy is expected to make landfall in Gujarat's Jakhau Port by Thursday evening.

After the cyclone hits the Gujarat coast, its effect will be visible in the south-western part of Rajasthan.

By Friday afternoon, this cyclone will enter Rajasthan in the form of a depression, which will end up turning into a low pressure area by the time it approaches Jodhpur on Saturday.

There is also a possibility of a storm with a speed of up to 70 km.

In Sirohi district adjacent to Gujarat, rain with strong winds lashed the surrounding areas of Revdar tehsil on Wednesday.

The wind speed was such that people could not get out of the houses. Along with this, the hoardings placed outside the shops also fell.

On the other hand, in view of the cyclone, an alert has been issued in the district and people have been instructed not to leave the house.

In Barmer, Jalore, Pali, Barmer, Jaisalmer districts, the collector has issued advisory to the people and instructed them to adopt special vigilance on Friday and Saturday.

Along with this, flood control room numbers have been issued for emergencies.

In Bikaner, instructions are being given to people to be alert through loudspeakers.

Ahmedabad: As Cyclone Biparjoy advances in the Arabian Sea, the state of Gujarat braces for its impact. The state administration has initiated extensive measures to mitigate potential loss of life and property. The cyclone is expected to make landfall between 4 PM and 8 PM on Thursday, with wind speeds predicted to reach 150 kmph.

At present, all coastal areas of the state have been placed on high alert, owing to the impending threat of Cyclone Biparjoy. According to the Meteorological Department, wind speeds near Jakhau port, located between Mandvi in Kutch and Karachi in Pakistan, are currently fluctuating between 125 to 135 kmph.

Kutch is predicted to bear the brunt of the cyclone's impact, with the storm expected to progress slowly over the next 6 hours. This will result in strong winds across Kutch, Morbi, and Dwarka. The cyclone's trajectory will take it from Gujarat towards Rajasthan.

Given the likelihood of the cyclone intensifying, high waves are expected to rise in the sea, and stormy winds could reach speeds of 150 kmph, potentially causing significant destruction. Districts including Kutch, Junagadh, Jamnagar, Porbandar, Devbhoomi Dwarka, Gir Somnath, Morbi, and Valsad are expected to be heavily impacted by the cyclone.

In response to the impending storm, 6 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been deployed in Kutch, 3 in Devbhoomi Dwarka, 2 each in Rajkot and Jamnagar, and one each in Junagadh, Porbandar, Gir Somnath, Morbi, and Valsad. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) has also stationed two teams each in Kutch, Jamnagar, and Devbhoomi Dwarka, and one team each in Junagadh, Porbandar, Gir Somnath, Morbi, Patan, and Banaskantha.