Cyclone Threat Grounds Trains as Eastern Railway Suspends Services Amid Safety Concerns

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 23, 2024, Kolkata :  In a proactive measure to safeguard passengers ahead of the impending cyclone, Eastern Railway has announced the suspension of all local train services departing from Sealdah station from 8 PM on Thursday until 10 AM on Friday. The decision also extends to train services from Namkhana and Hasanabad, emphasizing the railway's commitment to public safety during this critical time.

According to the Meteorological Department, cyclone conditions are expected to develop between Puri and Sagardwip, with impacts forecasted for Thursday night or Friday morning. In light of this threat, all Puri-bound trains have been canceled, affecting a significant number of long-distance services throughout South India. A total of 85 long-distance trains—including those originating from Howrah, Shalimar, and Santragachi—are now canceled, alongside 93 inbound trains, including several superfast options.

The cyclone has already formed in the Bay of Bengal, prompting heightened alerts for both Bengal and Odisha. The expected trajectory indicates the cyclone will cross between Sagar Dwip and Puri, raising concerns about severe weather conditions. Local administration in Kolkata is on high alert, as the region has already begun experiencing adverse effects, with over 200 train cancellations reported across both states.

Among the canceled local services are multiple routes, including Sealdah to Lakshikantpur, Diamond Harbour, Baruipur, Sonarpur, and Barasat. Additional cancellations are anticipated as the situation unfolds, with station announcements set to inform travelers of any further disruptions. Deepak Nigam, the Sealdah Divisional Railway Manager, confirmed that 160 local trains have been canceled due to safety concerns, with some branches also suspending operations beginning Thursday evening.

In addition to local services, numerous long-distance trains have also been affected, with cancellations requested by East Coast Railway. Notable cancellations include the Sealdah-Puri Duranto Express, Secunderabad-Howrah Falaknama Express, and Puri-Jayanagar Express. The Digha-Visakhapatnam Express is also set to be canceled on Friday.

The impact of the cyclone is being felt beyond West Bengal, with similar precautions implemented in Odisha. A high alert has been issued in Puri, prompting the closure of schools and colleges. The Odisha administration has ordered the evacuation of all hotels and lodgings along the coast by 5 PM on Wednesday, creating challenges for tourists trying to return home amidst the cancellation of several trains.

As the region braces for the cyclone's impact, both travelers and local residents are urged to stay informed and prioritize safety in these uncertain times.