Cyclone Dana is already making its presence felt across eastern India, causing major disruptions to travel plans. The storm has thrown schedules into disarray, particularly in Bengal, Odisha, and Assam, where authorities are taking swift action to ensure safety.
Airports Grounded: A Wave of Cancellations
Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport has taken a proactive step, suspending all flight operations for 15 hours, beginning at 6 pm on Thursday and lasting until 9 am on Friday. This closure affects all flights, including those operated by major airlines like Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad, Air India, IndiGo, Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, Biman Bangladesh Airlines, SpiceJet, GoAir, and Vistara. Travelers are scrambling to adjust their itineraries, with many left stranded.
Following Kolkata’s lead, Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar has also announced flight suspensions, starting at 5 pm on Thursday and continuing until 9 am on Friday. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) confirmed the move, highlighting the severity of the approaching cyclone.
Bagdogra and Guwahati airports are on high alert, prepared for potential flight cancellations as Cyclone Dana intensifies. If the storm gains strength, Assam’s airports, including Guwahati, might face similar flight suspensions to prioritize passenger safety.
Railways Halt Services: A Nation-Wide Impact
The Indian Railways has taken a decisive step, canceling hundreds of trains between October 23 and 25 to minimize the risk to passengers. Long-distance routes like the Howrah-Secunderabad Falaknuma Express, Kamakhya-Yesvantpur AC Express, Howrah-Bhubaneswar Shatabdi Express, and Howrah-Puri Shatabdi Express are among those suspended.
Preemptive Measures: Protecting Lives and Property
Governments in West Bengal, Odisha, and Assam have initiated evacuations of millions of people from vulnerable areas. Schools, offices, and businesses have been closed for the next few days to ensure the safety of residents. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local authorities are on standby, ready to respond to emergencies.
Stay Informed and Prepared:
With heavy winds, rainfall, and the threat of flooding looming, residents and travelers are urged to take all precautions seriously. For those with travel plans, be prepared for delays and cancellations, both by air and rail.
Key Takeaways for Travelers:
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Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, Bagdogra, and Guwahati airports are preparing for the worst.
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Key train routes are suspended, affecting both business and leisure travelers.
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Reschedule any non-essential travel.
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Stay up-to-date with the latest information from airlines and railways.
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If the cyclone strengthens, Assam’s airports may follow suit with further closures.
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Stay alert and be ready to adjust your travel plans.
The most important thing is to stay informed and prepared. By following updates from airlines, railways, and local authorities, you can navigate the challenges posed by Cyclone Dana and ensure your safety.