Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a discussion with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Thursday regarding the situation after Cyclonic storm ‘Biparjoy’ hit Gujarat’s coastal areas. During the conversation, PM Modi inquired about the safety arrangements for the wildlife in Gir Forest. Gujarat CMO tweeted about the conversation.
Earlier on Thursday morning, Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel chaired a review meeting at the State Emergency Operation Center in Gandhinagar. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also held a live meeting at the ‘war room’ to discuss railway tracks, overhead equipment, and other issues.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the intensity of Cyclone Biparjoy has reduced from ‘very severe’ to ‘severe’ category after the storm made landfall in coastal areas of Gujarat on Thursday evening. Due to this cyclone, around 99 trains running through, originating or terminating in affected areas of Gujarat, will remain cancelled or short-terminated, Western Railway said.
Tens of thousands of people were evacuated to safe locations in Gujarat, and several relief and rescue teams are on alert. The IMD issued a Red alert for the Saurashtra and Kutch coasts, warning about extensive damage to temporary housing structures and falling of trees and branches due to high-speed winds, high tides, and heavy rainfall.
Officials are closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary precautions. They are urging people to avoid unnecessary travel and maintain caution during this time.
