Monday, 23 December 2024
Monday, 23 December 2024
Cyclone Dana is brewing over the Bay of Bengal, poised to evolve into a severe cyclonic storm. With a wind speed of up to 120 kmph, it is expected to make landfall between Odisha and West Bengal on October 25. Authorities have swung into action, deploying resources and personnel to mitigate the impact. Both Odisha and West Bengal are bracing for heavy rainfall, evacuations, and disruptions.
Here’s a look at the preparedness and measures taken to face Cyclone Dana:
Coast guard on high alert
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has mobilised its vessels and aircraft, ready to respond swiftly. Coordination is underway with local authorities to ensure smooth rescue and relief operations. Helicopters stationed in Haldia and Paradip are broadcasting weather warnings to fishermen, urging them to seek safe shelter.
NDRF deployments in Bengal
Nine teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed across West Bengal. Schools have been ordered to close, and tourists are being asked to leave coastal areas like Puri to avoid danger. Rescue operations are prepared to handle any potential emergencies.
Evacuation shelters ready in Odisha
Odisha has arranged around 800 cyclone shelters and an additional 500 temporary shelters, including schools and colleges. Officials are ensuring essential supplies such as food, water, and medicine are available for evacuees. Measures are also in place to provide safety and privacy for women with the deployment of female police personnel.
100% evacuation plan in vulnerable areas
The Odisha government is committed to achieving "zero casualty" through 100% evacuation of residents from vulnerable areas. Police patrols have been increased to address residents' fears of theft during evacuations. Pregnant women due to deliver within two weeks are being relocated to hospitals to avoid complications during the cyclone.
Preparation in full swing in Calcutta airport
Authorities at Kolkata's Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport are on high alert as preparations ramp up to manage potential disruptions from Cyclone Dana, expected to make landfall on October 25.
In light of the impending storm, the airport's standard operating procedures have been activated. This includes thorough inspections of infrastructure, drainage systems, and servicing of installations.
Dr Pravat Ranjan Beuria, the airport’s director, stated PTI he is scheduled to convene with various stakeholders soon to discuss coordinated efforts in ensuring smooth operations during the cyclone.
Schools closed, leave cancelled
Schools in 14 districts, including Puri, Cuttack, and Balasore, have been closed as a precautionary measure. The state government has also cancelled leaves for all staff between October 23 and 25 to ensure seamless disaster management.
Energy and health preparations
Odisha’s Energy Department is ready to restore electricity quickly post-cyclone, while urban development teams are focused on preventing waterlogging. Health services have stocked essential medicines, including anti-snake venom, and ensured safe drinking water to prevent disease outbreaks in the aftermath.
Rainfall alerts and impact zones
The IMD has issued a red alert for heavy rainfall in several districts, including Balasore and Mayurbhanj, on October 24 and 25. Officials are closely monitoring the cyclone’s path, ready to adjust plans if Dana shifts track unexpectedly. Coastal residents are being urged to stay indoors and follow safety advisories.
Fishermen warned to stay ashore
Coast Guard units are transmitting continuous alerts to fishing vessels, urging them to dock safely. Village heads have been roped in to inform fishing communities, discouraging them from venturing into the sea until the cyclone passes. Helicopter sorties are ready to launch search-and-rescue missions if required.
We're prepared: Mamata
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has assured that the state administration is fully prepared to manage any disaster arising from the impending cyclone. As a precautionary step, all primary and secondary schools in nine districts will remain closed from October 25 to 26.
Banerjee confirmed the deployment of NDRF and SDRF teams, along with the activation of integrated control rooms operating 24x7 at both the state and district levels. Fishermen have been warned against venturing into the seas, and public address systems are in place to keep coastal residents informed.
(With inputs from agencies)
