As the extremely severe cyclonic storm Biparjoy approaches the coastal city of Karachi, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a fresh advisory, urging caution and preventive measures. At the time of reporting, the cyclone is approximately 600 kilometers away from Karachi. The PMD has classified Biparjoy as a “very severe cyclonic storm” with maximum sustained surface winds of 160-180 kilometers per hour, accompanied by gusts of up to 200 kilometers per hour. The storm’s center has been marked by phenomenal sea conditions and waves reaching heights of 35-40 feet.
In response to the impending threat, authorities have taken immediate actions to ensure the safety of the public. Seaview Road in Karachi has been cordoned off, preventing traffic from accessing the coastline. This step aims to discourage people from venturing into the open sea. SSP Raza emphasized that while there is no ban on visiting Seaview, restrictions are in place to prevent activities such as swimming and fishing due to the hazardous sea conditions caused by the approaching cyclone.
Evacuations and Emergency Preparedness
Recognizing the potential risks and challenges posed by Cyclone Biparjoy, the Sindh government has initiated an elaborate security plan to safeguard the public. Over 15 checkpoints have been established at Seaview and other roads leading to the beach to ensure compliance with safety measures. Emergency control rooms have also been set up at Seaview to provide assistance to individuals in distress.
In anticipation of the cyclone’s impact, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah conducted an aerial inspection of the coastline, covering areas in Sujawal, Badin, and Thatta. He reviewed the preparedness and arrangements made to mitigate the cyclone’s effects on the coastal belt. The chief minister was briefed on the need for evacuations in vulnerable areas and the expected rise in sea levels by four to five meters during the storm.
Warnings and Precautionary Actions
The PMD has issued warnings and advisories for different regions. The forecast indicates that from June 13 to 17, Thatta, Sujawal, Badin, Tharparker, and Umerkot districts are likely to experience widespread wind-dust/thunderstorm rain, including heavy falls and squally winds of 80-100 kilometers per hour. Karachi, Hyderabad, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tando Allayar, Shaheed Benazirabad, and Sanghar districts are expected to witness dust/thunderstorm rain with few heavy falls and squally winds of 60-80 kilometers per hour from June 14 to 16.
Read more: Karachi Beaches Closed to Public Due to Escalating Threat of Severe Cyclonic Storm
To ensure the safety of residents in vulnerable areas, the authorities have launched evacuation operations. People from villages near Shah Bunder, Jati, and Keti Bunder are being relocated, with approximately 50,000 individuals expected to be evacuated ahead of the cyclone. Additionally, preparations have been made to evacuate residents of the Khaar Kuchhan and Keti Bandar areas. The Navy and Maritime Security have been instructed to provide necessary support in these evacuation efforts.
As the cyclone approaches, the Sindh government has declared an emergency in all organizations operating under the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation. Rain emergency centers have been activated throughout the city, and rescue teams
