The block administration has started ferrying relief materials in the 10 islands of the block fearing further inundation. Similar measures have been taken by the block administration of Gosaba and Basanti. Amiya Chakraborty, BDO, Gosaba said they have decided to stock the relief material at various gram panchayat offices if the tidal wave lashes the area again.

According to Basanti block administration, about 17 km of embankments have been washed away and 57 km of embankments were damaged.

What is Bhora Kotal?
Spring Tide — also known as Bhora Kotal in local parlance in the Sunderbans — usually occurs every fortnight during New Moon and Full Moon. The water level in the Sunderbans rises about two meters during the Spring Tide. According to experts at Kolkata Port Trust, these tides occur when Sun, Moon and the Earth get aligned on the same line causing the water level of the sea or river rise due to the gravitational force. The effects of the spring tide continue for two to four days, KoPT experts added.