Cyclone Dana Updates...
The eastern coast of India is preparing for Cyclone Dana, which is expected to significantly impact Odisha and West Bengal. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted landfall between Puri and Sagar Island, with Bhitarkanika and Dhamra being the most at-risk areas. Below is a detailed overview of the storm’s anticipated impact and the measures being taken to ensure safety.
Timing and Intensity of Cyclone Dana
Cyclone Dana is projected to make landfall between the night of October 24 and the morning of October 25. The IMD's Director-General, Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, has stated that the cyclone could bring maximum wind speeds of up to 120 kmph during this time. These winds are expected to cause considerable damage to infrastructure, including homes, trees, and electrical lines, potentially disrupting vital services.
The landfall process is expected to begin late on Thursday and continue into Friday, with the worst effects expected in northern Odisha and parts of West Bengal, particularly along the coastal regions.
Preparations in Odisha
The Odisha government has launched extensive safety measures. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Manjhi has assured the public that districts expected to face the brunt of the cyclone—such as Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Balasore, Jagatsinghpur, and Puri—are being closely monitored, and precautions have been put in place.
Evacuations are ongoing, with around 30% of the targeted population already moved to safer locations. The evacuation is expected to continue overnight, with a goal of relocating 90% of the affected individuals by the morning of October 25. Current reports indicate that three to four lakh people have been moved to secure locations.
Travel Disruptions in Odisha
To ensure public safety, Bhubaneswar's Biju Patnaik International Airport will suspend operations for 16 hours starting Thursday evening. Train services have also been halted to prevent accidents. With strong winds and heavy rainfall anticipated to disrupt roadways, authorities have advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel.
Impact on West Bengal
West Bengal is similarly preparing for major disruptions as Cyclone Dada approaches. The state has already relocated over 1.4 lakh individuals from high-risk areas such as Sagar Island, the Sundarbans, and Kakdwip. Further evacuations are planned, with another 2.8 lakh people expected to be moved from districts including Bankura, Hooghly, Howrah, North and South 24 Parganas, and parts of Kolkata.
Kolkata’s airport will also suspend operations for 15 hours starting Thursday evening, while the Eastern Railway has cancelled 190 trains to reduce travel risks during the storm.
Advisory for Tourists and Fishermen
Tourists visiting coastal locations like Digha, Shankarpur, and Tajpur in West Bengal have been strongly advised to stay indoors. Authorities have warned the public to avoid venturing near the sea, and fishermen have been urged not to go out during this period. Both the Coast Guard and emergency services are on alert to respond to any incidents at sea.
Disaster Relief Efforts
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed 56 teams across several states, including Odisha and West Bengal. Twenty NDRF teams are positioned in Odisha, with one team on standby, while 13 out of 17 teams in West Bengal are prepared for immediate action. Additionally, nine teams have been stationed in Andhra Pradesh and Jharkhand, and one in Chhattisgarh, to provide support in case of flooding or heavy rains.
Conclusion
With Cyclone Dana rapidly approaching, both Odisha and West Bengal have undertaken substantial efforts to mitigate the storm's impact. Evacuation procedures are well underway, and disaster response teams are prepared for immediate action. It is essential for residents to follow official guidance and stay informed about safety measures. Proper preparedness will help minimize the damage and facilitate a quick recovery once the storm passes.
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