As the Bay of Bengal churns with increasing ferocity, a formidable weather system, Cyclone Ditwah, is rapidly intensifying and charting a course towards the eastern coast of India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded a high alert, issuing a Red Alert for several coastal districts, signaling an imminent threat. The approaching storm has already begun to cast a shadow over daily life, with extensive disruptions to air and rail travel as a precautionary measure, underscoring the severity of the situation and the immediate need for preparedness.
Cyclone Ditwah: Trajectory, Intensity, and Landfall Projections
According to the latest bulletins from the IMD, Cyclone Ditwah has escalated into a Severe Cyclonic Storm, currently positioned over the west-central Bay of Bengal. Meteorological models indicate a probable west-northwestward movement, with an anticipated landfall between the coasts of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. The exact point of crossing the coast remains under continuous observation, but preliminary projections suggest the storm could make landfall near Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh or Gopalpur in Odisha, likely late Tuesday or early Wednesday.
The cyclone is characterized by sustained wind speeds of 100-110 kmph, gusting up to 120 kmph, and is expected to further intensify before landfall. Beyond the destructive winds, Ditwah is predicted to unleash extremely heavy rainfall across coastal districts of Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and parts of West Bengal. Furthermore, a significant storm surge, potentially reaching 1.0 to 1.5 meters above astronomical tide, is feared, posing a considerable threat of inundation to low-lying coastal areas.
Flights and Trains Cancelled Amidst Rising Concerns
In anticipation of Cyclone Ditwah’s impact, authorities have initiated widespread cancellations and rescheduling of public transport services to ensure passenger safety and minimize potential casualties. Indian Railways has announced the cancellation of numerous long-distance trains passing through or terminating in the affected zones. Key routes connecting cities like Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, Visakhapatnam, and Chennai have seen significant disruptions. Passengers are advised to check the latest railway advisories before planning any travel.
Air travel has also been severely impacted. Airports in major coastal cities, including Bhubaneswar (BBI), Visakhapatnam (VTZ), and Kolkata (CCU), have announced the suspension of operations or a significant reduction in flights. Several airlines have issued advisories, allowing passengers to reschedule or cancel tickets without penalty for travel to and from the affected regions. The decision comes as a proactive measure to prevent aircraft damage and ensure the safety of ground staff and passengers from severe crosswinds and heavy rainfall expected during the storm’s passage.
IMD Red Alert Issued: States Brace for Impact
The IMD has issued a Red Alert for coastal districts of Odisha, particularly Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Balasore, and Puri, and for districts like Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, and Srikakulam in Andhra Pradesh. A Red Alert signifies that residents should “take action,” indicating the highest level of threat and the need for immediate preparedness measures. State disaster management authorities, along with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams, have been pre-positioned in vulnerable areas.
Evacuation efforts are underway in low-lying coastal villages, with temporary shelters equipped with essential supplies being set up. Fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the sea, and those already out have been urged to return to shore immediately. Government agencies are working round the clock to clear potential obstructions, ensure power supply stability, and manage communication channels. “We are closely monitoring the situation and urge all citizens in the red alert zones to strictly follow the advisories issued by local authorities and the IMD,” stated Dr. S.K. Singh, a senior IMD official. “Safety must be the paramount concern; any complacency could have severe repercussions.”
As Cyclone Ditwah looms, the focus remains on minimizing loss of life and property. Authorities are emphasizing public cooperation with evacuation orders and adherence to safety guidelines. The coming hours will be crucial as the nation watches the progression of this severe cyclonic storm.
