Cyclone Biparjoy, which is heading for coastal areas of Pakistan and India, is likely to intensify into an ‘extremely severe cyclonic storm’, officials associated with Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) said, advising authorities concerned to be on high alert as it can cause flooding, particularly in low-lying areas, among other damages. According to chief meteorologist Dr Sardar Sarfaraz, the cyclone is currently directed towards coastal areas of Karachi, Thatta, Sujawal, Badin, Tharparkar and adjoining areas of Indian Gujarat and it is likely to make a landfall on June 14 or 15 which gives authorities plenty of time to prepare.
While avoiding panic, authorities concerned need to be fully prepared to cope with any situation. The relevant government bodies have started issuing statements, while fishermen have been told to avoid going to sea. Moreover, in Karachi authorities have begun to restrict public access to beaches. However, as Met officials have pointed out, strong winds pose a danger to weak structures such as Kutcha Houses. We should not forget that plenty of billboards and hoardings remain in Karachi, despite a court order calling for their removal. In the event that strong winds batter the coast, flying billboards are likely to prove deadly. The infrastructure along the Makran coast in Balochistan is poor. Hence needful should be done to ensure public safety. Plans need to be in place to evacuate vulnerable populations to safer places till the storm subsides. Safe shelters equipped with necessary supplies including food, water, medical aid and hygiene facilities should be established to accommodate evacuees. The success of these relief plans depends on effective coordination between various stakeholders. Government should launch a public-awareness campaign warning population in cities and along coastal areas about potential hazards and what to do in case of emergency situation.
