Cyclone Dana to be severe: Armed Forces on high alert for major relief efforts in Odisha, WB
New Delhi: Cyclone Dana is set to have a serious impact on the coastal areas of Odisha and West Bengal. In response, the Indian Navy has initiated extensive preparations for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.
The Eastern Naval Command has activated its disaster response system, working alongside naval officers in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and West Bengal. Two ships from the Eastern Fleet have been dispatched with essential supplies, including rescue and diving teams, to aid in relief efforts by sea.
The Indian Navy is on high alert, closely monitoring the situation and pledging full support to those affected by the cyclone. The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that medical assistance will be provided upon request from state authorities, coordinating with various units such as Base Victualling Yard, Material Organisation, and Naval Hospital INHS Kalyani.
To ensure readiness, the Navy has stockpiled crucial items like clothing, drinking water, food, medicines, and emergency supplies. Disaster response kits have been strategically placed in areas likely to experience damage from the cyclone. Additionally, flood relief and diving teams are on standby for coordinated rescue operations.
The Indian Air Force and Coast Guard are also taking measures to protect lives and property in the affected regions. The Air Force has airlifted 150 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel and 25 tonnes of relief supplies to Bhubaneswar using IL-76 and AN-32 aircraft. Marine vessels, aircraft, and remote-operating stations in West Bengal and Odisha are ready to respond to emergencies.
The Ministry of Defence has assured that all necessary precautions have been taken by the Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard to minimise the impact of Cyclone Dana.
The severe cyclonic storm is expected to make landfall between Bhitarkanika in Kendrapara district and Dhamra in Bhadrak district on the night of October 24 into the morning of October 25. After landfall, the storm is likely to shift slightly westward, bringing heavy rainfall to southern Odisha districts on October 26.
Since Wednesday afternoon, several coastal districts in Odisha have already started experiencing rainfall, with wind speeds steadily increasing. Reports indicate that trees have been uprooted in some areas, and fire service personnel and rescue teams are actively working to clear roads.
Agency