DACCA: The devastating cyclone and tidal wave that ravaged the coastal districts of East Pakistan last night [Nov 12] claimed about 1,000 lives besides causing damage to dwelling houses and crops.

The maximum velocity of the cyclone had reached 120 miles per hour and in a spell of three hours lasting up to 3a.m. this morning it played havoc with life and properties. A tidal surge of 20 feet high, whipped up by the cyclone, swept over the coastal areas, washing away everything that came in its way.

Official sources have so far confirmed 15 deaths in Chittagong district alone. Over 80 injured persons have been brought to Chittagong Hospital. Chittagong city, including the port area, was badly battered by the cyclone. Scores of country boats anchored in Karnaphuli river had capsized ... [and] 60 per cent kutcha houses were damaged. … The offshore islands, which escaped the wrath of the cyclone of last month, bore the main brunt this time. The islands badly mauled are, among others, Hatiya, Sandwip and Kutubdia.

With the restoration of tele-communications with the affected areas, the casualty figure in Chittagong, it is apprehended, might rise up further.

Published in Dawn, November 14th, 2020