The states of West Bengal and Odisha have taken proactive measures to ensure the safety of their residents ahead of the severe cyclone Dana’s landfall. Authorities have shifted thousands of people living in low-lying areas to cyclone shelters and relief camps.
Flights operations at the Kolkata and Bhubaneswar airports have been suspended, and the Railways is also taking necessary precautions to minimize the impact of the cyclone.
West Bengal Disaster Management Minister Javed Ahmed Khan stated that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is closely monitoring the situation and has opened 851 relief camps. Around 1.60 lakh people have been evacuated, with over 83,000 shifted to relief camps.
Cyclone Dana, formed over the east-central Bay of Bengal, is expected to affect several districts in Bengal. The Indian Coast Guard is on high alert and has mobilised vessels and aircraft to respond swiftly to any contingency.
In Odisha, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi assured that the government is fully prepared to tackle any situation arising from the cyclone. Around 3 lakh people have been evacuated, and more than 7,000 cyclone shelters have been set up.
Kendrapara, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Jagatsinghpur, and Bhadrak districts in Odisha are expected to be worst affected by Dana, with heavy to extremely heavy rainfall predicted. Air services to and from Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar have been cancelled.
Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea, and NDRF and Fire Services teams have been deployed for relief and rescue operations. The Railways has also taken proactive measures to ensure minimal disruption and maximum preparedness in the event of the cyclone, including the construction of dedicated war rooms for quick decision-making and restoration of services.
Overall, both states are bracing for the impact of Cyclone Dana and have taken all necessary precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of their residents.