In a high-level review meeting chaired by Chief Minister of Tripura Dr. Manik Saha on Saturday, preparations for managing the highly severe cyclone ‘Mocha’ were assessed.
The meeting, which aimed to evaluate the readiness measures, was attended by J.K. Sinha, Chief Secretary A.K. Bhattacharya, Special Secretary for Disaster Management, Dr. Sarat Kumar Das, SPO-Disaster Management, Nahush Kulkarni, and Director of IMD Agartala.
According to a press note issued by the concerned authorities, ‘Mocha’ is expected to move in a north-northeast direction and make landfall between Cox’s Bazar in Bangladesh and Kyaukpyu in Myanmar.
The anticipated time of landfall is around noon on May 14, with the cyclonic storm reaching the status of a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm, accompanied by maximum sustained wind speeds of 150-160 kmph, gusting up to 175 kmph.
In Tripura, heavy rainfall anticipated in isolated places on May 14. Squally winds with speeds of 50-60 kmph, gusting up to 70 kmph, are expected on May 14.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange warning (Alert, be prepared) for South Tripura, Gomati, Dhalai, and North Tripura districts, while the remaining five districts have been placed under a Yellow warning (Watch).
The authorities have urged everyone, particularly farmers, to promptly harvest mature fruits and crops, provide support and cover to vegetable nurseries and fruit orchards, refrain from applying fertilizers and pesticides, and ensure the safety of livestock by keeping them inside sheds.
During the meeting, it was reported that district-level instructions have been given to various departments, including the police, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Fire & Emergency Services, and trained volunteers, to remain vigilant and take necessary preparedness measures according to their respective district plans.
Quick Response Teams have been formed at departmental and community levels, and equipment has been tested and made ready for use. Rubber boats have been inflated and strategically placed, while public announcements have been made at the community level to raise awareness and ensure the safety and security of the residents.
Relief centers have been identified and officers have been assigned to manage them, and emergency Operation Centers are operational with additional staff.
Additionally, HAM (Amateur Radio) stations have been activated, low-lying areas have been identified, and Tehsildars (revenue officials) and damage assessment teams have been instructed to promptly assess the situation to facilitate early assistance to those affected.
