ISLAMABAD: As the very severe cyclonic system Biparjoy approaches Pakistan’s coastal belt, the National Disaster Management Authorities (NDMA) Chairman Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik announced on Tuesday that approximately 100,000 individuals will be relocated to safer areas by tomorrow evening to ensure their safety.
During a press conference in Islamabad, Chairman Malik highlighted the ongoing efforts to control the storm’s impact and minimize weather-related damages. The Sindh government, along with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and relief camp medical missions in Balochistan, have been alerted and are prepared to respond.
Climate Change Minister Sherry Rehman, present at the same press conference, emphasized that the storm is currently headed towards Balochistan. The government remains in constant communication with the NDMA, closely monitoring the situation. Rehman mentioned that Keti Bandar, Thatta, Badin, and other areas are expected to be affected, and all rescue missions and agencies have been placed on high alert.
Despite Biparjoy downgrading from “extremely severe” to “very severe,” Minister Rehman cautioned that urban flooding is likely to occur in Karachi due to the intensity of the winds. She also revealed that over 40,000 people have already been evacuated, and 43 relief camps have been established.
According to the latest advisory from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the cyclone is currently positioned about 470 kilometers south of Karachi, 460 kilometers south of Thatta, near Latitude 20.7°N and Longitude 67.1°E.
Biparjoy Approaches India
In neighboring India, preparations are also underway as Biparjoy approaches Gujarat state and southern parts of Pakistan. Classified as a very severe cyclonic storm, it is expected to make landfall between Mandvi in Gujarat and Karachi with maximum sustained wind speeds of 125-135 km/h (78-84 mph) and gusts up to 150 km/h (93 mph), as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
Indian authorities have already initiated evacuations from coastal areas and suspended fishing operations and school activities. Gujarat, home to major ports and offshore oil installations, has experienced high waves, heavy rainfall, and gusting winds, resulting in casualties and disruptions to various sectors.
In Pakistan, the National Disaster Management Authority has issued precautionary instructions for the southern and southeastern regions that may be impacted by the cyclone.
