Cyclone Remal Aftermath: Relief and Recovery Efforts Across Assam, Bengal and Northeastern States

The severe cyclonic storm Remal left a trail of destruction across parts of West Bengal, Assam, and other northeastern states, affecting thousands of families. With winds exceeding 110 km/h and widespread rainfall, the cyclone disrupted daily life, uprooted infrastructure, and triggered flooding. As the weather stabilises, both central and state authorities have stepped up relief and rehabilitation operations in the affected regions.

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Widespread Damage Across Eastern and Northeastern States

Cyclone Remal made landfall near the Bangladesh-West Bengal coast on the night of May 26, bringing intense rainfall and gusty winds to several districts in eastern India. Coastal and riverine areas in West Bengal bore the initial impact, with North and South 24 Parganas among the worst-hit.

In Assam, the cyclone’s aftereffects triggered heavy rains and flash floods, especially in Barak Valley, Dima Hasao, and parts of Cachar and Karimganj districts. Several northeastern states, including Meghalaya and Tripura, also experienced road blockages, landslides, and electricity outages.

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Displacement and Immediate Relief Measures

Thousands of families were evacuated from low-lying areas in advance, with temporary shelters set up in schools and community halls. As per initial reports, over 50,000 people in Assam and Bengal were directly affected, with many losing access to clean water, food supplies, or electricity.

State disaster response forces, along with NDRF teams, have been deployed across impacted districts to clear debris, restore communication lines, and provide medical aid. Relief materials including dry rations, tarpaulin sheets, and bottled water are being distributed to displaced families.

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Infrastructure and Transport Disruptions

Remal severely affected transportation infrastructure, especially in rural and semi-urban regions. Several roads and railway tracks were submerged or damaged, impacting connectivity in Tier-2 cities such as Silchar, Dibrugarh, and Malda. Train services from Guwahati and Kolkata were disrupted, though partial restoration is now underway.

Electricity supply has been erratic across affected zones, with power poles uprooted in multiple locations. Restoration work is in progress, but authorities have warned that some remote areas may take longer to reconnect.

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Government and Community Response

Chief ministers of both Assam and West Bengal have reviewed ground reports and allocated additional funds for immediate rehabilitation. The central government has assured full support, including emergency financial aid and assistance from defence forces if required.

Local NGOs, youth groups, and community leaders are also actively participating in distributing food packets, clearing fallen trees, and aiding the elderly in navigating flooded areas. Schools in several districts remain closed until conditions improve.

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Looking Ahead: Preparedness and Recovery

Meteorologists have emphasised that early warnings and improved evacuation protocols helped reduce casualties. However, the extent of damage has once again highlighted the vulnerability of eastern and northeastern India to extreme weather events driven by climate change.

Long-term recovery will involve rebuilding homes, restoring water sources, and supporting livelihoods affected by the storm. For now, the focus remains on restoring normalcy, with special attention to rural and semi-urban pockets where support often arrives slowly.

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Conclusion

Cyclone Remal has brought yet another reminder of the fragile nature of life along India’s eastern corridor. As immediate relief efforts continue, a coordinated response between state, central, and community actors will be key to ensuring that affected families regain stability. In the coming weeks, attention must also shift to sustainable disaster preparedness, especially in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities that face the brunt with limited resources.