Cyclone 'Dana' to hit Odisha-Bengal coast with 120 km/h winds, fishermen banned, shelters opened

Cyclone 'Dana' is rapidly approaching the Odisha-West Bengal coast and is expected to make landfall on Thursday morning, bringing wind speeds of up to 120 km/h, as per the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The cyclone has prompted high alert warnings for both states, with significant weather changes expected to begin by Wednesday. While the exact point of landfall remains uncertain, the IMD has predicted severe weather across coastal areas, including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and the risk of flooding.

Fishermen have been strictly prohibited from going to sea until Saturday due to dangerous sea conditions. The Fisheries Department has ordered all fishing boats to return to shore by Monday evening to ensure their safety. Coastal residents, especially those near embankments, are advised to pack essential items and relocate to higher ground or designated cyclone shelters. Continuous rainfall, coupled with rising sea and river water levels, increases the risk of floods and property damage in low-lying areas.

District administrations in South 24 Parganas, Kakdwip, Patharpratima, and Namkhana have initiated full-scale disaster preparedness efforts. Cyclone shelters have been opened across the most vulnerable areas, with control rooms set up in key locations to coordinate relief and emergency operations. Public announcements are being made in coastal villages like Sagar, Namkhana, Frasergunj, and Bakkhali, warning residents about the storm and urging immediate precautionary measures.

Civil Defense, SDRF (State Disaster Response Force), and NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) teams have been placed on high alert for emergency deployment in case of flooding or other disasters. The Irrigation Department is actively monitoring embankments for any signs of damage, as breaches could worsen the impact of the cyclone. Rapid repair teams are prepared to fix any embankment issues that arise. The administration has stocked essential supplies, including dry food, drinking water, and tarpaulins, at panchayat offices to ensure adequate relief for affected populations. Control rooms are being established in BDO offices for round-the-clock updates and monitoring.

The Sundarbans region, home to many vulnerable coastal villages, is especially on edge, with local authorities issuing evacuation orders for residents near riverbanks and low-lying areas. Memories of the devastation caused by Cyclone Aila in 2009 are fresh in the minds of many residents, as Cyclone 'Dana' is expected to bring similar wind speeds and potential destruction. The 120 km/h winds, similar to Cyclone Aila, have raised concerns about severe infrastructure damage, uprooted trees, and flooding.

Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and stay tuned to official weather advisories. People are advised to avoid non-essential travel, remain indoors during the cyclone, and take all necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families. With all emergency response teams on standby, the government is leaving no stone unturned to minimize the impact of Cyclone Dana.