Authorities On High Alert As Cyclonic Storm ‘Dana’ Approaches Odisha And West Bengal

Authorities in Odisha and West Bengal have entered a state of high alert as cyclonic storm ‘Dana’ is likely to form in the Bay of Bengal. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the storm is expected to make landfall along the coast between Puri and Sagar Islands during the night of October 24 and the early morning of October 25.

Storm Intensification and Movement

The IMD reported that the depression over the Bay of Bengal intensified into a ‘Deep Depression’ on Tuesday, located approximately 690 km from Paradip (Odisha), 740 km from Sagar Island (West Bengal), and 710 km from Khepupara (Bangladesh). Forecasts indicate that the system will move west-northwest, potentially developing into a cyclonic storm by October 23.

The IMD further stated, “Continuing to move northwest, it is very likely to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm over northwest Bay of Bengal by the morning of October 24, crossing the north Odisha and West Bengal coasts with wind speeds of 100-110 km/h, gusting up to 120 km/h.”

State Preparedness and Response

In anticipation of the storm, the Odisha government is focused on ensuring “Zero Casualty.” Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi instructed all MLAs to remain in their constituencies to assist residents in navigating the storm’s aftermath. “All legislators should stay with their constituents and provide necessary support,” he noted on X.

The Chief Minister also assigned nine ministers to oversee cyclone management in districts likely to be impacted by Dana. Industry Minister Sampad Chandra Swain will supervise relief efforts in Jagatsinghpur, while PR&DW Minister Rabi Nayak is responsible for Balasore.

Relief and Shelter Initiatives

The Odisha government has established 250 mega cyclone relief centers for evacuees and prepared 500 temporary shelters, including schools and colleges. Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari confirmed that all shelters are stocked with essential supplies, and women police personnel will be deployed to assist female evacuees.

In addition, the state has appointed six senior IAS officers to oversee rescue and relief operations across affected districts, including Balasore, Bhadrak, and Puri.

West Bengal Prepares for Impact

The West Bengal government has also taken precautionary measures, ordering the closure of schools and colleges in nine districts from October 23 to 25. Ferry services in vulnerable districts will be suspended, and fishermen have been advised to avoid deep-sea fishing. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee assured the public of the state’s readiness to manage the situation.

Transportation Disruptions

Meanwhile, the East Coast Railway (ECoR) announced the cancellation of 198 trains over the same three days due to the approaching storm. General Manager Parmeshwar Funkwal convened a meeting with senior railway officials to ensure “Zero Risk to Passengers.”

As storm Dana approaches, both Odisha and West Bengal are taking proactive steps to mitigate potential damage and ensure the safety of their residents.