Shadow of ‘Red Alert’ on Bengal! Leaving the house till Monday is not free from danger, Meteorological Department issued strict warning

The next 48 hours are going to be extremely challenging for the residents of West Bengal. The Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a ‘red alert’ for most parts of the state and advised people to remain extremely alert. Due to the deep depression in the Bay of Bengal, torrential rains are expected till Monday, which has given sleepless nights to the administration. From Kolkata to Darjeeling and coastal areas, the situation remains critical. Meteorologists have made it clear that unless it is absolutely necessary, going out of the house till Monday can be like putting your life at risk. Highest danger in these districts, administration on high alert According to the latest bulletin of the Meteorological Department, serious problem of waterlogging may arise in the districts of South Bengal, while there is a danger of landslides due to heavy rains in the hilly areas of North Bengal. There is a possibility of water logging in low-lying areas of Kolkata, Howrah, Hooghly and North 24 Parganas. Disaster management teams have already been deployed. The administration has given strict instructions to the local people not to go to the banks of rivers and stay away from dilapidated buildings. Passengers coming from Lucknow and other parts of the state have also been advised to plan their journey keeping in mind the weather patterns. Schools and offices may be affected till Monday. In view of the red alert, the government has started taking precautionary measures. Holidays can be declared in many schools and colleges till Monday. Apart from this, attendance in government offices is also expected to be less. The transport system may also be disrupted as there is a possibility of delay in train and bus services due to heavy rains. Local municipalities have been instructed to activate drainage pumps and keep emergency helpline numbers operational 24 hours. What to do and what not to do? Administration Guidelines: The Disaster Management Department has issued a detailed advisory for the general public. People have been appealed to keep power banks, essential medicines and dry ration ready with them. Do not go near electric wires and poles, as strong winds are also expected along with the rain. If you are on the road and facing waterlogging, park your vehicle at a safe place and do not drive into the flowing water. In case of any emergency, immediately contact the local police or disaster relief number. This is the time to exercise restraint and caution.