Cyclone Ditwah heads towards Indian coasts; several flights and trains cancelled

Cyclone Ditwah, which caused widespread destruction in Sri Lanka earlier this week, is now moving toward India’s eastern coast, prompting authorities to issue a red alert for Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and southern Andhra Pradesh.

The system, currently intensifying over the Bay of Bengal, has already begun affecting coastal areas with strong winds, heavy rainfall, and rough seas. Disaster management teams are on standby as officials urge residents in vulnerable areas to remain indoors and follow safety advisories.

According to early warnings issued on Saturday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that the cyclone is likely to strengthen further by Sunday evening, increasing the risk of flooding, uprooted trees, and damage to infrastructure. 

Authorities have cautioned fishermen and coastal residents against venturing into the sea, as waves are expected to rise significantly due to high wind velocity and storm surge.

In preparation for potential landfall impact, 28 teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed in Tamil Nadu to support rescue and relief operations. More than 6,000 relief camps have been arranged to shelter people from low-lying and high-risk areas, in anticipation of possible evacuation orders.

Transport disruptions have intensified as weather conditions worsen. Thirty-five flights were cancelled at Chennai Airport on Saturday, and 47 additional flights have been suspended today due to strong winds and poor visibility. 

Also Read: Cyclone Ditwah Nears Puducherry: High Tides, Strong Winds, Rainfall Hit

Indian Railways has also suspended several passenger and express train services. Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reviewed preparedness with senior officials, while war rooms have been activated at the Railway Board, zonal, and divisional levels.