BHUBANESWAR: With a possible cyclonic storm, ‘Dana,’ brewing over the Bay of Bengal, Odisha is bracing for its impact. The state government, on Sunday, ramped up preparations, urging local administrations to stay alert and ready for any eventuality.
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister, Suresh Pujari, reassured the public that the state is fully prepared to tackle the situation. He stated that all necessary measures have been put in place to ensure the safety and security of the people. “We are taking proactive steps to minimize the potential damage from the cyclone,” Pujari said.
He added that detailed discussions have been held with key officials, and district administrations have been instructed to stay vigilant. Teams from the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and fire services have been placed on high alert.
District Collectors have been directed to ready cyclone shelters in their respective areas, in case evacuations are required from vulnerable regions. “Preparations are being made to ensure quick response if evacuation becomes necessary,” the Minister said.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that a cyclonic circulation over the Andaman Sea is likely to intensify into Cyclone ‘Dana’ by October 23. It is expected to approach the Odisha-West Bengal coastline by the morning of October 24. A low-pressure area is anticipated to form in the east-central Bay of Bengal within the next 24 hours, moving west-northwestward and potentially developing into a depression by October 22.
In response to the IMD warning, Additional Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Padmanav Behera has instructed district Collectors in Ganjam, Puri, Kendrapada, Jagatsinghpur, Bhadrak, and Balasore to ensure that no fishermen venture out to sea until October 26. “Fishermen currently at sea are advised to return to the coast immediately,” said Behera, adding that district authorities must confirm that all fishermen have returned safely.
Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected to lash parts of Odisha under the influence of the cyclone, with the IMD issuing red, orange, and yellow alerts for various districts. District Collectors have been asked to remain prepared for possible waterlogging, especially in low-lying areas, and to monitor hilly regions for potential landslides.
Urban areas prone to waterlogging, particularly underpasses, will also be closely monitored, with dewatering operations prepared to be implemented wherever needed. Authorities are keeping a close watch on the evolving situation, urging citizens to stay calm and follow official advisories
It may be noted that the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported that the cyclonic circulation over the central Andaman Sea is expected to intensify into a low-pressure system within the next 24 hours. This system is likely to develop into a depression by October 22 and evolve into Cyclone ‘Dana’ by October 23.
As per the IMD, the cyclonic circulation was observed over the North Andaman Sea early on October 20 and is expected to move west-northwestwards. A low-pressure area will form over the east-central Bay of Bengal and the adjoining northern Andaman Sea, gradually intensifying.
Cyclone ‘Dana’ is forecasted to strengthen as it moves towards the northwest, with landfall likely along the Odisha-West Bengal coasts by the morning of October 24. Rainfall is expected to begin on October 23 and intensify on October 24 and 25, with wind speeds at landfall potentially reaching 100-120 km/h, according to IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra. The cyclone’s name, ‘Dana,’ was proposed by Qatar.
Supply Minister warns against hoarding amidst cyclone threat
Odisha’s Supply Minister Krushna Chandra Patra has issued a stern warning to hoarders and unscrupulous traders in light of the impending cyclone. He cautioned that strict action will be taken against those involved in hoarding essential commodities.
The minister emphasized that any attempt to exploit the situation through black market activities will not be tolerated. Patra has directed the concerned department to closely monitor food stockpiles and ensure that no shortages occur due to illegal hoarding. Additionally, he urged vigilance to prevent any attempts at profiteering during this critical time.
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