Cyclone brings death and destruction to India

At least 12 people in India have been killed in a huge storm brewing off the country’s east coast.

Strong winds and rain slashed West Bengal state’s capital Kolkatta as the city braced itself for the onslaught of Cyclone Aila. The Indian Army has been called in to start rescue operations in the coastal districts where large scale damage is feared.

Winds of about 34mph uprooted trees that blocked major roads and rain caused flooding in many parts of the city which has lost at least five people to the storm. Around seven others were killed in other parts of the state.

Train services were disrupted and flights cancelled into and out of Kolkatta. Power lines and telephone services were affected and civic authorities were trying to clear trees off roads.

West Bengal chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee said: “Relief has been sent. Police and fire brigade services have been placed on high alert.”

Forecasters have warned people not to go out despite a statement saying the cyclone is likely to weaken.

Meanwhile, as it veered off course from India, Cyclone Aila slammed into neighbouring Bangladesh killing five people including two children and a 60-year-old man.

Many low-lying areas of coastal districts and offshore islands are under eight feet of water due to tidal surges. Ferries have remained suspended since noon local time.