Bangladesh initiates large-scale evacuation as cyclone Remal nears from Bay of Bengal | Global News

Bangladesh is bracing for the impact of severe cyclonic storm ‘Remal’ as authorities launch a massive evacuation campaign in vulnerable areas along the coast. The storm, forecasted to make landfall by evening or midnight, poses a significant threat with high tidal surges and heavy rainfall expected in coastal districts like Satkhira and Cox’s Bazar.

The Department of Disaster Management has mobilized resources to move vulnerable populations to safer locations, with over 78,000 volunteers from the Cyclone Preparedness Program on standby. Additionally, 4,000 cyclone shelters have been prepared with dry food supplies to accommodate those at risk.

State Minister for Disaster Management and Relief Md Mohibur Rahman emphasized the importance of preparedness, stating that all necessary measures have been taken to ensure the safety of residents in the affected areas. Leaves of officials have been canceled, and transportation has been arranged to facilitate the evacuation process.

As the cyclone approaches, operations at the Chattogram Port and Chittagong airport have been suspended for safety reasons. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has issued warnings for ports to hoist danger signals, with some coastal districts under great danger signal number 10.

With Cyclone Remal intensifying into a severe cyclonic storm, authorities are urging residents to take necessary precautions and heed evacuation orders to minimize the impact of the impending disaster. This marks the first cyclone of the pre-monsoon season in the Bay of Bengal, underscoring the importance of preparedness and response efforts in the face of natural disasters.