Bhubaneswar, Oct 23: Authorities in Odisha and West Bengal are on high alert as Cyclone ‘Dana’ is expected to make landfall between Puri and Sagar islands on the night of October 24 and early morning of October 25. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the depression over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a deep depression and is projected to become a severe cyclonic storm.
The system, currently centered approximately 690 km from Paradip in Odisha and 740 km from Sagar Island in West Bengal, is anticipated to move northwestwards, potentially bringing wind speeds of 100-110 kmph, gusting up to 120 kmph.
In preparation for the storm, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has instructed all MLAs to remain in their constituencies to assist with relief and rescue efforts. He emphasized the importance of coordinating with district administrations to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.
The state government has deployed six senior IAS officers to oversee operations in districts likely to be affected, including Balasore, Bhadrak, and Puri. A total of 250 mega cyclone relief centers and 500 temporary shelters have been established to accommodate evacuees from vulnerable areas.
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari confirmed that all shelters are stocked with food, medicines, and water. Additionally, women police personnel will be present to assist women evacuated from at-risk locations.
West Bengal is also taking precautionary measures, with the state government ordering the closure of schools and colleges in nine districts from October 23 to 25. Ferry services will be suspended, and residents in low-lying areas have been advised to relocate to safer locations.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has urged fishermen to avoid venturing into the deep sea and reassured the public that the state government is fully prepared to handle the situation.
In response to the storm’s threat, the East Coast Railway (ECoR) has canceled 198 trains from October 23 to 25, prioritizing passenger safety. General Manager Parmeshwar Funkwal held a meeting to ensure that all necessary precautions are in place to maintain a ‘Zero Risk to Passengers’ policy.
As both states brace for the impending storm, officials remain vigilant in their efforts to mitigate potential impacts and ensure community safety.