Cyclone Sitrang: Rain halts launch services in Barishal, Bhola

Launch and speedboat movement on 12 routes from Barishal river port has been suspended due to heavy rains and gusty wind caused by cyclone "Sitrang" formed over the east-central Bay.

Apart from this, all types of launch movement of domestic and long-distance routes have been declared closed in Bhola, Barishal River Port officer Abdur Razzak told our local correspondent.

Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) of Barishal Md Sohel Maruf said, "The disaster management committee in Barishal district has kept emergency items, including dry food, in stock to manage the crisis during the time of cyclone."

Total 1,051 cyclone shelters are ready to deal with the cyclone-hit people in the district, he said adding that a total of 2,40,000 people could take shelter in the centres.

At the same time, the authorities have been giving latest updates about the cyclone using loudspeakers, he said.

According to the weather forecast, maritime ports of Mongla and Payra have been advised to hoist danger signal no. seven and Chattogram and Cox's Bazar ports have been advised to hoist danger signal no. six.