Cyclone Dana Set to Strike Odisha and West Bengal, Trains Cancelled as Precautionary Measure

Cyclone Dana is in the formation in the east-central Bay of Bengal, as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This cyclone is the second to form in the north Indian Ocean Basin, which includes the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea, after Cyclone Asna developed in late August in the Arabian Sea.

According to Mrutunjay Mohapatra, Director General of IMD, the cyclone may affect the eastern coastline from Puri to West Bengal.

IMD said, “Cyclone Dana moved at a speed of 18 km/hr during the last six hours and lay over east central Bay of Bengal.” According to IMD, there is a high probability of the cyclone moving northwest and strengthening into a severe cyclonic storm over the northwest Bay of Bengal by early Thursday morning. IMD announced that the cyclone will become a 'severe' cyclone between Puri and Sagar Island on the north Odisha and West Bengal coasts on Thursday night and Friday.

The movement of trains has also been impacted by Cyclone Dana, leading to the cancellation of 198 trains passing through or originating from Odisa by the East Coast Railways.

The Indian Coast Guard said that they are on high alert and have transported their vessels and aircraft to quickly respond to any emergency caused by the cyclone, which is expected to bring heavy rainfall to two nearby states.

Mohan Charan Majhi, the Chief Minister of Odisa, called on all MLAs to work closely with the administration for rescue and relief efforts in Odisa, as it is expected to be impacted by the cyclone.

“Discussion was also held for early restoration of power and water supply and telephone and road communication. Uninterrupted electricity will be ensured to hospitals. The concerned department has already kept a close watch to prevent hoarding or overcharging of essential commodities,” the Chief Minister of Odisa said.

Chief Minister of West Bengal Mamta Banerjee declared that schools in seven districts will be closed from October 23 to 26.

Officials have been instructed to move the residents living in coastal areas with low elevation. The Indian Coast Guard is using helicopters and remote stations to regularly broadcast weather alerts and safety warnings to fishermen and seafarers.