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Bengal coastal districts on alert as deep depression intensifies over Bay of Bengal

Kolkata, Oct 26 (UNI) Coastal districts of West Bengal have been placed on alert as a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal intensifies, with the possibility of it developing into a severe cyclonic storm named Arnab, according to preliminary weather forecasts.
The system is reportedly moving towards Andhra Pradesh, but its anticipated impact is likely to be felt in Bengal, particularly in coastal areas, where heavy rainfall, strong winds and tidal surges are expected.
The combination of the developing weather system and the full-moon spring tide has raised concerns over possible inundation in vulnerable coastal stretches. Authorities in South 24 Parganas and East Midnapore have stepped up preparedness measures to deal with the potential threat.
In the Sundarbans, including Namkhana and Mousuni Island, officials began public announcements and surveillance from Monday morning to alert residents about the approaching weather system. People living in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain cautious as rough seas and rising water levels could pose a threat to riverside settlements.
The Sundarbans have repeatedly suffered damage during cyclones, with breaches in river embankments allowing saline water to enter villages and inundate agricultural land. Keeping these past experiences in mind, the South 24 Parganas district administration has intensified monitoring and directed local authorities to remain prepared for any emergency.
Fishing in the sea has been prohibited, and fishermen operating in rivers and coastal waters have been instructed to return to safe locations by Monday evening. Civil defence personnel have been deployed in Sagar, Bakkhali and Mousuni to assist with emergency response measures. Block administrations across the Sundarbans have also been directed to maintain heightened vigilance.
In East Midnapore, monitoring has been intensified along the coast, particularly in Digha, Tajpur and Mandarmani. The sea is expected to become increasingly turbulent from Tuesday, prompting authorities to strengthen surveillance and caution tourists against entering the water.
Officials are closely monitoring the evolving situation as preparations continue to minimise the risk to coastal communities, fishermen and visitors. The extent of rainfall and tidal surges will depend on the system's development and movement over the Bay of Bengal.
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