Puri/Kolkata – As Cyclone Dana barrels towards the Odisha and West Bengal coasts, the region is bracing for impact. With landfall expected on October 25, emergency measures are in full swing. This tropical cyclone, originating from the Andaman Sea, is heading towards the Bay of Bengal and is set to cause significant disruptions across coastal areas.
Cyclone Dana: Timeline and Expected Impact
The cyclone is predicted to make landfall either around midnight on October 24 or in the early morning hours of October 25, near the Puri coastline in Odisha. Winds are anticipated to reach speeds of up to 120 km/h, posing a serious threat to life and property in the region. The Odisha government has already launched proactive measures to ensure the safety of both residents and visitors in the coastal belt.
Tourism in Puri Suspended: Safety Measures for Tourists
Given the intensity of the cyclone, over 3,000 tourists in Puri have been safely evacuated. To minimize risks, all hotel bookings in Puri have been suspended for four days, ensuring no new visitors arrive during the cyclone’s expected impact. This decisive action reflects the commitment of local authorities to prioritize safety over tourism.
Odisha Closes Schools and Colleges, Cancels Employee Leaves
In response to the approaching cyclone, the Odisha government has declared a temporary closure of schools and colleges in 14 districts until October 25. Employees across affected districts have had their leaves canceled, ensuring adequate manpower for emergency response efforts. These preventive actions demonstrate the state’s readiness for what could be a devastating storm.
Mass Evacuations: Relocating Nearly 1 Million People in Odisha
Odisha is taking no chances. Approximately 1 million people are being evacuated from vulnerable areas to safer locations. These large-scale relocations are part of a broader disaster management plan designed to mitigate loss of life and property. With cyclones like Dana posing significant risks, these evacuations aim to minimize the potential impact.
Jagannath Temple Rituals to Continue Despite Cyclone
Despite the impending cyclone, the Jagannath Temple in Puri will maintain its regular worship schedule, according to head priest Ramkrishna Pratihari. However, devotees have been urged to refrain from visiting the temple until October 25, prioritizing their safety during the cyclone’s impact. This decision balances religious tradition with practical safety considerations.
Disruptions in Rail and Transport: Over 300 Trains Canceled
Transportation services across Odisha and West Bengal have been heavily disrupted in anticipation of Cyclone Dana. More than 150 trains in Odisha and 198 trains in West Bengal have been canceled to avoid any accidents due to high winds and potential flooding. The government has also focused on clearing people from high-risk areas like Digha, Purba Medinipur, and South 24 Parganas, where approximately 150,000 individuals have been evacuated to safer zones.
The Origin of Cyclone Dana: Meaning and Significance
Cyclone Dana was named by Saudi Arabia, with the name “Dana” meaning generosity. While the name may evoke kindness, the storm it represents is anything but gentle. As it approaches the coast, the governments of Odisha and West Bengal are preparing for the worst while hoping for the best.
Preparedness is Key as Cyclone Dana Approaches
With Cyclone Dana nearing the coast, proactive measures have been put in place by both state governments. Evacuations, transport disruptions, and safety protocols are all part of a coordinated effort to minimize the cyclone’s impact. As the region braces for impact, staying informed and following official guidelines is essential to ensuring safety.
