Cyclone Biporjoy makes landfall; strong winds damage 300 electric poles in Morbi

Morbi: Heavy rains and gusty winds at a speed of over 115-120 kmph created havoc in Gujarat’s Morbi district after Cyclone Biporjoy makes landfall in Gujarat. Due to the gusty winds nearly 300 electric poles were damaged leading to power outages in around 45 villages in Gujarat.

The efforts to restore power in nine of the affected villages said officials of the Paschim Gujarat Vij Company Limited.

Speaking to ANI, JC Goswami, PGVCL’s executive engineer said, “Strong winds broke electric wires and poles, causing a power outage in 45 villages of Maliya tehsil. We are restoring power in 9 villages and power has been restored in the remaining villages.”

On Thursday evening, at least 22 people were injured while electric poles and trees were uprooted as the Biporjoy cyclone made landfall in Gujarat’s coastal areas.

Earlier, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel chaired a review meeting at the State Emergency Operation Center in Gandhinagar this morning to assess the preparedness and response plans for the cyclone impact. The government is working in tandem with the IMD to mitigate the potential impact of the cyclone and ensure the safety of its residents.

All flights have been suspended at Jamnagar Airport. The airport authorities have completed the necessary preparations to tackle cyclone Biparjoy. Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) has been issued until June 16, and all flights will remain suspended from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Fuel reserves have been stocked up to ensure smooth operations during emergencies.

The state government has been actively involved in the evacuation efforts, with over 94,000 people already moved to safer locations along the cyclone’s path. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating the rescue operations. Inspector General (IG) N.S. Bundela provided this update, highlighting the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives.