Cyclone Dana: Odisha and Bengal Brace for Landfall

Cyclone Dana, a severe cyclonic storm named by Qatar, has put both Odisha and West Bengal on high alert as it barrels towards the Bay of Bengal. With evacuation efforts in full swing, these states are preparing for the cyclone's impact, intensifying fears of widespread disruption and damage.

Mass Evacuations Underway

Authorities in Odisha are working tirelessly to evacuate nearly 10 lakh people from vulnerable coastal areas. As of Wednesday, only 30% of the targeted evacuations had been completed, with operations ramping up as the cyclone approaches. In West Bengal, the situation is equally dire, with over 1.14 lakh people already relocated to safety. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has mobilized 56 teams across five states, ensuring emergency personnel are on standby to respond to the cyclone's landfall.

Disruptions to Daily Life

Cyclone Dana has already begun disrupting daily life in affected areas. In West Bengal, all schools and educational institutions will remain closed from October 23 to October 26, with similar measures taken in Odisha until October 25. The Odisha Civil Services Preliminary Examination, scheduled for October 27, has been postponed, with a new date to be announced after the cyclone subsides.

Flight operations are also suspended in anticipation of the storm. Kolkata's Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport will halt flights for 15 hours starting at 6:00 PM on Thursday, while Bhubaneswar's airport will follow suit, suspending flights for 16 hours from 5:00 PM. Ferry services across the River Hooghly in Kolkata and the Sunderbans area have also been canceled to avoid any potential dangers.

Emergency Services and Preparedness

The Indian Coast Guard has been put on high alert, readying vessels and aircraft for emergency response as Cyclone Dana intensifies. As the storm gathers strength over the northwest Bay of Bengal, local authorities and national disaster management teams are on high alert to provide critical services. The Coast Guard's proactive response, combined with the NDRF's deployment, showcases India's preparedness to handle such natural disasters.

Cyclone Dana: What Lies Ahead

Cyclone Dana is expected to make landfall as a severe cyclonic storm. While the exact trajectory of the storm is still being monitored, the potential for heavy rainfall, flooding, and wind damage looms large. Coastal communities, in particular, are urged to remain vigilant, adhere to evacuation orders, and stay updated on weather advisories.

As the storm approaches, the resilience of the people in Odisha and West Bengal will be tested. However, with extensive preparation, the coordinated efforts of state and national agencies, and the determination of local communities, these regions are doing everything they can to weather the storm. Stay tuned for further updates on Cyclone Dana as it makes its way toward landfall.

Reference From: www.newsbytesapp.com