Cyclone Dana, a developing storm in the Bay of Bengal, is poised to make landfall on the eastern coast of India on October 25, 2024, prompting authorities in Kolkata and Odisha to activate emergency protocols.
The storm, which intensified from a deep depression, is currently located southwest of various ports in Bangladesh, moving west-northwest and gaining strength. With maximum sustained wind speeds reaching 62 kilometers per hour and gusts up to 88 kilometers per hour, Cyclone Dana is expected to bring rough seas and potential flooding.
At Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, officials have implemented a comprehensive set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to minimize the impact of the cyclone. These include thorough inspections of critical infrastructure, ensuring the functionality of drainage systems, and servicing key installations. This proactive approach is designed to safeguard airport operations and ensure a swift restoration of services if any disruptions occur.
In Odisha, authorities are particularly focused on vulnerable coastal districts such as Balasore, Bhadrak, Kendrapara, Mayurbhanj, Jagatsinghpur, and Puri, where heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding are anticipated. The Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar has conducted an emergency inspection of critical installations, including air traffic control towers and stationary aircraft, to ensure their resilience against the cyclone.
The East Coast Railway (ECoR) has taken a proactive approach, canceling nearly 200 train services that would have operated along the projected path of the cyclone. This decision prioritizes the safety of passengers and staff, preventing potential accidents.
Odisha’s disaster management teams are fully mobilized, ready to assist with evacuations and flood control measures in critical areas. Local communities in coastal districts have been advised to remain vigilant, with several emergency shelters prepared to accommodate displaced residents.
As Cyclone Dana approaches, authorities across both West Bengal and Odisha remain on high alert, with safety measures in place to minimize the cyclone’s impact on infrastructure, transportation, and public safety. The focus is on minimizing disruption and ensuring the safety of residents and travelers.
