Cyclone 'Remal' has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm and is anticipated to approach the shores of Bangladesh and West Bengal by Sunday (26 May) midnight, with winds of 110-120 kmph and gusts up to 135 kmph, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).

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The storm is expected to cause exceptionally severe rainfall in West Bengal's coastal regions, as well as heavy to very heavy rain in Kolkata and surrounding areas.

In the aftermath of Cyclone Remal, the Indian Navy has begun preparations to conduct a credible Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) response by current Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

Kolkata airport will remain closed from 1200 Hrs of 26 May to 0900 Hrs of 27 May due to severe cyclone conditions. All Air India flights to and from Kolkata are cancelled during this period.

Meanwhile, due to the cyclone threats, the Indian Railways has also cancelled several trains. 

A look at the cancelled trains below:

1- Trains not to operate on May 26 include:

Train number 22897 (Howrah-Digha Kandari Express) 
Train number 08137 (Panskura-Digha EMU Passenger Special)

Train number 08139 (Panskura-Digha EMU Passenger Special) 
Train number 22898 (Digha-Howrah Kandari Express)

2- Trains not to operate on May 27 include:
Train number 08136 (Digha-Panskura EMU Passenger Special) 
Train number 08138 (Digha-Panskura EMU Passenger Special) 

3- Train number 22889 (Digha-Puri Superfast Weekly Train) will operate from Kharagpur instead of Digha on 26 May.

Helpline numbers

In view of the possible destruction because of Cyclone Remal, Kolkata Police has issued the helpline numbers (9432610428 and 9432610429).