Kolkata, India — The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for large parts of West Bengal and Odisha as Cyclone Remal strengthens over the Bay of Bengal. With landfall projected within 48 hours, authorities are scrambling to implement emergency protocols, evacuate low-lying areas, and secure essential infrastructure.

Storm Forecast and Path

According to the IMD’s latest bulletin, the low-pressure system is expected to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by May 7 and make landfall near the West Bengal-Bangladesh border by the evening of May 8. Wind speeds are predicted to reach up to 110 km/h at the time of landfall, accompanied by torrential rains and a potential storm surge of up to 1.5 meters in coastal regions.

“We are tracking Cyclone Remal very closely. The system is gaining strength rapidly and is expected to impact both West Bengal and northern Odisha,” said Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director General of Meteorology at IMD.

Red Alert and Evacuation Measures

The IMD has placed South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, and parts of North Odisha under red alert. District authorities have begun large-scale evacuations of coastal villages, while schools and public offices have been ordered shut in vulnerable zones.

“We’ve activated cyclone shelters, and over 45,000 people have been moved from high-risk areas to safety,” said Mamata Banerjee, Chief Minister of West Bengal. “We’re not taking any chances.”

The Odisha government, meanwhile, has deployed 18 teams of the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), as well as the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local fire personnel. Fishing operations have been suspended in the Bay of Bengal region until further notice.

Impact on Transport and Utilities

Flight operations at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata may be disrupted. Indian Railways has issued advisories, and train cancellations are expected along coastal tracks. Power and water supply departments are also on high alert, with backup generators deployed in hospitals and emergency centers.

“We’ve advised all airlines to remain flexible with their schedules from May 7 to 9. Passenger safety is our top priority,” said an official from the Airports Authority of India.

Rescue and Medical Readiness

Medical teams are being sent to coastal districts, and supplies including dry rations, tarpaulins, and ORS packets are being stocked. The Indian Army and Navy remain on standby to assist if the cyclone causes major infrastructure damage.

In Odisha’s Balasore district, 1,200 people have already been shifted inland. In West Bengal, special trains are on standby for emergency relocation.

Public Awareness and Government Appeals

Both states have launched 24x7 helplines and are using radio, social media, and public address systems to inform citizens. Authorities have appealed to residents not to spread rumors or panic, and to follow only official advisories.

“Timely communication is the key. We’re issuing hourly updates via WhatsApp, Twitter, and local TV networks,” said an IMD spokesperson.

Looking Ahead

As Cyclone Remal continues to gain momentum, meteorologists are monitoring wind shear, humidity levels, and sea surface temperatures to predict its strength and path. Early indications suggest that urban flooding in Kolkata and Bhubaneswar is highly probable.

Relief agencies are urging people in vulnerable zones to pack essentials, charge devices, and move to higher ground if necessary.

Infinitrix News will continue to track this developing story as it unfolds.

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