As Cyclone Dana approaches with wind speeds reaching 110 kph, Odisha is on high alert. A total of 25 NDRF teams have been deployed, with the state’s goal set at achieving 100% evacuation and preventing any casualties.
Tasked with preparing for the impending cyclone expected to hit the Bay of Bengal with wind speeds ranging from 100 to 110 kph, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has dispatched 25 teams. Out of these teams, 14 have been stationed in West Bengal, while the remaining 11 are positioned in Odisha. Both central and state agencies are working in tandem to mitigate the potential impact of the cyclone, focusing on executing preventive evacuation procedures and other safety protocols.
Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been mobilized in anticipation of a cyclone threat.
In readiness for an approaching cyclone in the Bay of Bengal, 25 teams from West Bengal and Odisha have been deployed by the NDRF. The cyclonic storm is forecasted to gain strength and hit the coastline between Puri in Odisha and Sagar Island in West Bengal either late Thursday night or early Friday morning. Wind speeds are anticipated to range from 100 to 110 mph, with occasional gusts reaching up to 120 mph. Authorities are actively preparing for probable destruction, evacuation, and urgent rescue missions.
As per the government’s announcement, the severe Cyclonic Storm is expected to advance in a northwesterly direction and is highly probable to make landfall along the northern Odisha and West Bengal coasts, specifically between Puri and Sagar Island, on the night of October 24th and early morning of October 25th, 2024. Wind speeds are estimated to range between 100-110 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 120 kmph.
Review by NCMC on Emergency Preparedness
A review session regarding cyclone preparedness took place on Monday, led by Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan, who chairs the National Disaster Management Committee. During the meeting, the Director General of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) presented information on the cyclone’s path and strength. Apart from the Army, Navy, and Coast Guard, rescue units are prepared for immediate action, with ships and aircraft on standby for deployment. Emergency response teams from the Ministries of Power and Telecommunications have also been mobilized to reinstate essential services in the impacted regions.
Somanathan emphasized the importance of striving to prevent any loss of lives and reducing harm to property and infrastructure.
In Odisha and West Bengal, proactive steps are being taken.
The authorities of Odisha and West Bengal are vigilant and closely monitoring the situation. Fishermen have been called back from the sea, and residents in high-risk coastal areas are being evacuated. Emergency services such as power supply and medical aid are on standby for immediate deployment. The states are striving to prevent widespread loss of life and property.
Central agencies on full alert
The central agencies have reassured Odisha and West Bengal of their readiness to provide assistance for rescue and recovery operations. Surrounding states such as Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand have been cautioned to stay vigilant in light of the heavy rainfall. Authorities are also keeping a close watch on dam locations to manage water releases and avert potential flooding.
