Odisha is on high alert as Cyclone Dana prepares to make landfall on the state’s coast, bringing with it the threat of strong winds and heavy rainfall. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that the cyclone will hit between Bhitarkanika Park and Dhamra Port on Friday, October 25.
In anticipation of the impending storm, the Odisha government has launched a full-scale response, including the evacuation of residents from vulnerable coastal areas. This proactive measure aims to minimize the potential impact of the cyclone on human life and property.
The evacuation process is underway, with authorities aiming to relocate 90% of residents from affected districts by 11 am on Thursday. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has reassured the public that the government is fully prepared to handle the situation.
“The state government is taking cyclonic storm ‘Dana’ very seriously. Arrangements are in place for the affected districts, including Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Balasore, Jagatsinghpur, and Puri,” the Chief Minister stated.
To ensure the safety and well-being of those evacuated, authorities have established temporary shelters equipped with essential amenities, including food, drinking water, lighting, and sanitation.
In preparation for the cyclone’s arrival, the Odisha and West Bengal governments have joined forces with the Coast Guard, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and other rescue agencies.
The Odisha Fire Services Director General, Sudhanshu Sarangi, reported that 182 teams comprising nearly 2,000 personnel have been mobilized to respond to the cyclone’s impact across 14 affected districts. This includes 20 NDRF teams and 400 personnel from the State Disaster Force.
As a precautionary measure, schools and other educational institutions in the affected areas have been temporarily closed.
The Odisha government’s swift and decisive action demonstrates its commitment to protecting its citizens from the dangers posed by Cyclone Dana. The government’s focus on preemptive evacuation, coupled with the coordinated efforts of various agencies, aims to mitigate the impact of the cyclone and ensure the safety of all residents.