KOLKATA: Cyclone Remal unleashed its fury across Bengal, claiming the lives of six individuals and leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The cyclone’s ‘whiplash’ effects, felt prominently in Kolkata and its surrounding areas, resulted in widespread chaos and tragic fatalities.
The relentless downpour, accompanied by winds gusting up to 91 kmph, inundated pockets of the city and suburbs, exacerbating the challenges faced by residents and authorities alike. By 5.30pm on Monday, Kolkata had received a staggering 189.5mm of rain over a span of 24 hours, further intensifying the impact of the cyclone. The havoc wreaked by Cyclone Remal claimed lives in various parts of Bengal, with three fatalities reported in Kolkata and its suburbs and an additional three in south Bengal.
Tragically, Mohammad Sajib, aged 51, met his demise when the cornice of a house collapsed on him in Entally late Sunday. Two others succumbed to electrocution incidents: Gopal Barman, aged 47, in Panihati, North 24 Parganas, and Tapasi Das, aged 53, in Nungi, South 24 Parganas. In the Sundarbans, extensive property damage and the loss of 75-year-old Renuka Mandal’s life occurred due to a fallen tree on Mousuni island. Furthermore, in East Burdwan’s Memari, the father-son duo of Forde Singh and Tarun Singh tragically lost their lives to electrocution while attempting to clear an uprooted tree.
The adverse weather conditions disrupted crucial transportation services, with train services in Sealdah north and south sections severely affected. Additionally, the Metro services were partially suspended until the afternoon. At the airport, flight operations faced significant disruptions, with arrivals suspended from noon to 2pm due to strong crosswinds. Twelve flights had to be diverted, while several others circled over the city until weather conditions improved.
As Bengal grapples with the aftermath of Cyclone Remal, the tragic loss of lives and widespread devastation serve as a stark reminder of the formidable challenges posed by natural disasters. Efforts to restore normalcy and provide relief to affected communities are underway, highlighting the resilience and solidarity of the people in the face of adversity.
