Taipei, 24 July (HS): Life in Taiwan came to a standstill on

Tuesday as typhoon Gaemi barrelled towards Taiwan. Markets remained closed and

people have been given the day off. Strong wind and torrential rains battered

Taiwan. The emergency services are on the alert.

The typhoon, first of the season, is likely to make landfall

on the northeast coast on Wednesday evening, according to Taiwan’s Central Weather

Administration.

Besides education institutions and commercial establishments,

27 international flights and almost all local flights have been cancelled.

According to Focus Taiwan CAN English News, typhoon

Gaemi reached the eastern coast of the island in the morning. The wind speed is

about 250 Km and may strike Yilan and Hualian counties. The Meteorological suspect

landslides on Thursday, which may cause severe damage.

According to the Taipei Times, educational institutions and

government and private establishments in New Taipei and adjoining regions

remained closed on Wednesday. Major streets in Taipei wore a deserted look.

Hindusthan Samachar / Ajay Vasant Mardikar / Manoj Kumar Tayal