HAZARD RISK OF TROPICAL CYCLONE BIPARJOY: PREPAREDNESS, EARLY RESPONSE AND POST IMPACT ASSESSMENT IN SUJAWAL, SINDH, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Tropical cyclone Biparjoy was formed in east-central Arabian Sea on June 06, 2023. The Pakistan Meteorological department has warned to the people of Karachi, Thatta, Sujawal and Badin about the adverse impacts of Biparjoy as early as possible. The district management of Sujawal started work on the relief and rescue in Sujawal from June 08, 2023, to June 16, 2023. All possible measures were taken. Evacuation process was initiated for public from vulnerable areas. Total of 53522 people were rescued. All stakeholders worked in coordination during the event. Fishermen into the sea were imposed. A warning was widely publicized through mosque and radio announcement, mainstream and social media. 6 primary relief and medical camps established in 3 Talukas within the radius of 10-15 kilometers. District Sujawal frequently destructive by sea intrusion and river flood thus need a comprehensive Early Warning System. The district is at high-risk affecting seashores with high tidal actions, and at risk of cyclones and floods. Protection of lives and property and improve community resilience by putting the suggested strategies into practice. The study highlights the necessity of a tried-and-true strategy that integrates technical developments and community involvement. In Sujawal, squally winds ranged from 100 to 120 km/h, with peak gusts reaching 140 km/h. Cyclone Biparjoy caused massive evacuations, isolated seawater intrusion, and temporary disruptions to livelihood in the coastal talukas of Sindh's Sujawal District. Very drastic conditions were observed as due to heavy rains damaged susceptible mud and straw cottages and uprooted trees. For more than a week, fishing was entirely prohibited along the Sujawal coast. Standing Kharif crops were severely devastated by the strong winds and the floods caused by the rain that followed. Newly planted rice, sugarcane, cotton, and coastal banana plantations were among the staple regional crops that suffered lodging and physical destruction. Very few incidences happened related to the livestock, agriculture and other assets. No any unwanted incident was observed related to old age, underage and gender. This may be due to strong vigilance of Pakistan Navy, District Administration and local political leadership of the area. Though it is fact that no proper compensation was given by the responsible authorities and related organizations to the effected coastal communities of Sujawal district Sindh. The proactive measures are necessary for the safety of vulnerable coastal communities of Sujawal Sindh Pakistan