Cyclone ‘Dana’ is set to wreak havoc across seven districts of West Bengal, with the state government taking various precautionary measures to mitigate its impact. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has assured citizens that her administration is fully prepared to handle the approaching cyclone, with Nabanna monitoring the situation 24/7.
Mamata Banerjee revealed that a high-level meeting had already been conducted to address the impending disaster. The cyclone is expected to make landfall between Odisha’s Puri and Bengal’s Sagar Island between the night of October 24 and the morning of October 25, with wind speeds potentially reaching 120 kilometers per hour.
Seven Districts on High Alert
The cyclone is expected to have a severe impact on seven districts: South 24 Parganas, North 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, Kolkata, Howrah, Hooghly, Bankura, and West Midnapore. Banerjee stated that fishermen have been warned against venturing into the sea, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been deployed along coastal areas. To ensure the safety of both residents and tourists, authorities are closely monitoring their movements, and ferry services along the coast have been suspended.
School Closures and Administrative Measures
In light of the severe weather conditions, all schools in the seven affected districts have been closed from October 23 to October 26. Mamata Banerjee further announced that seven IAS officers have been appointed as observers in these districts to oversee the situation. As an additional precaution, residents in coastal areas have been advised not to leave their homes. Banerjee also mentioned that in areas like East Midnapore, where there is no minister currently present, an observer will be sent.
Cabinet Meeting Amid Cyclone Concerns
A cabinet meeting has been scheduled for October 24 to further assess the situation and coordinate the relief efforts. Banerjee instructed senior officials and ministers in affected areas to stay put and ensure proper supervision. She also advised some officials, such as Pulak Roy from Uluberia, not to travel to the affected zones.
DVC Water Management and Heavy Rain Forecast
Mamata Banerjee issued a directive to the Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) to manage water levels and avoid releasing excess water during the cyclone. This decision is aimed at preventing any further complications during the storm. Heavy rainfall is also predicted in several districts of North Bengal, and the state government is prepared to handle the situation with appropriate measures.
Criticism of Central Government
While addressing the media, Banerjee expressed her dissatisfaction with the central government, accusing them of neglecting the state’s needs during disaster situations. She remarked, “You have seen how the state handled the flood crisis. Unfortunately, we have not received any financial aid, while neighboring states do. It’s a matter of misfortune that Bengal is overlooked.”
As the cyclone approaches, the government is urging citizens to remain cautious and follow the guidelines provided by the administration to ensure safety.