Cyclone Dana has begun to make its presence felt with strong winds and heavy rain lashing the coastal areas of Odisha. The states of Odisha and West Bengal are on high alert, with both state governments launching large-scale evacuation efforts to move people to safer locations.
In Odisha, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi reported that by Wednesday evening, around 30% of the estimated 10 lakh residents at risk had already been relocated to secure shelters. Meanwhile, West Bengal has successfully evacuated 1,14,000 individuals to safety.
Extensive Safety Arrangements
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that Cyclone Dana could reach wind speeds of up to 120 kilometers per hour. The cyclone is expected to make landfall between Bhitarkanika National Park and Dhamra Port along Odisha’s coast on the morning of October 25. In response, both states have initiated extensive rescue and evacuation operations. In Odisha, the focus is on relocating residents from 14 vulnerable coastal districts to cyclone shelters and other safe areas.
Heavy Rain Alerts in West Bengal
The effects of Cyclone Dana are also being felt in West Bengal, where the IMD has issued heavy rain warnings. Several districts, including Kolkata, North and South 24 Parganas, Howrah, Hooghly, and Midnapore, are expected to experience intense rainfall. The Meteorological Department has warned that these areas could see waterlogging and potentially flood-like conditions due to the heavy downpour. As a precaution, the West Bengal administration has begun evacuating residents from flood-prone areas to safer locations.
Trains and Flights Canceled
The severity of the approaching cyclone has led to significant disruptions in transportation. The South East and East Railways have canceled over 170 trains scheduled for October 24 and 25 as a precaution. Additionally, air services at Kolkata Airport will be suspended from 6 pm on October 25 until 9 am on October 26. These steps have been taken to ensure public safety and avoid any potential disasters during the cyclone’s landfall.
NDRF and Coast Guard on High Alert
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed 56 teams across Odisha and West Bengal to manage the emergency situation. These teams are stationed in the areas expected to be most affected by the cyclone, and are prepared for rescue operations as needed. In addition to the NDRF, the Indian Coast Guard has also deployed ships and aircraft to respond to any emergencies at sea. The coordinated efforts of these agencies aim to minimize loss of life and property as Cyclone Dana approaches.
Schools and Colleges Closed\
In anticipation of the cyclone’s impact, all educational institutions in Odisha and West Bengal have been closed. Schools and colleges in 14 districts of Odisha and seven districts of West Bengal will remain shut until October 25. The administration in both states has also placed all essential services on high alert, ensuring that immediate assistance can be provided if any critical situations arise.
As Cyclone Dana approaches, both states continue to take precautionary measures to safeguard their citizens.
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