A deep depression over the Bay of Bengal is intensifying into a cyclonic storm named ‘Dana’, posing a significant threat to the coastal areas of West Bengal and Odisha. In response, the district administration of East Midnapore has issued an order requiring tourists to vacate hotels in Digha by noon on Wednesday to ensure their safety.
Urgent Meeting Leads to Evacuation Directive
On Tuesday evening, an emergency meeting was held by the district administration, led by District Magistrate Purnendu Maji. Present at the meeting were Souvik Chatterjee, the Sub-Divisional Officer of Contai and Executive Officer of the Digha-Shankarpur Development Authority, along with representatives of the Digha-Shankarpur Hoteliers’ Association. It was unanimously decided that hotels must be evacuated by Wednesday to safeguard tourists from the approaching storm. This directive applies not only to Digha but also to other coastal tourist destinations in East Midnapore, including Shankarpur, Mandarmani, and Tajpur.
Beaches Closed, Swimming Banned, and Precautionary Measures in Place
On Tuesday, many tourists had flocked to the Digha beach to witness the rising tides. However, the authorities swiftly cordoned off the beach with ropes, restricting access due to the potential risk of accidents. Additionally, a ban on swimming in the sea has been imposed to prevent any mishaps. The administration has already started relocating residents living in vulnerable coastal areas to safer locations. Continuous public announcements are being made via loudspeakers to alert people about the impending danger and encourage compliance with safety measures.
Cyclone Expected to Hit Coastlines by Wednesday
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed the formation of a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal on Tuesday, which is likely to develop into Cyclone ‘Dana’. The cyclone is expected to make landfall along the coasts of Odisha and West Bengal by Wednesday, bringing wind speeds of 100-120 kilometers per hour. With this forecast, the authorities are taking extra precautions to minimize damage and ensure public safety.
Administrative Vigilance and Strict Enforcement
Hotel owners in Digha and surrounding coastal areas have been instructed to ensure that tourists vacate the premises by Wednesday noon. District Magistrate Purnendu Maji has emphasized that administrative teams will conduct inspections to ensure that no tourists remain in the hotels beyond the stipulated time. This decision is aimed at avoiding any potential risks to life during the cyclone’s impact.
Special Attention to Coastal Regions
Given the possibility of heavy rains and strong winds, coastal areas are under heightened surveillance. The rising water levels of the sea, coupled with the potential for flooding, have prompted the evacuation of several residents living near the shorelines. The district administration is leaving no stone unturned in its efforts to avert a disaster, with local authorities on high alert and relief measures already in motion.
As Cyclone ‘Dana’ looms over the Bay of Bengal, the East Midnapore district administration’s timely evacuation measures aim to protect the lives of tourists and locals alike. By enforcing hotel evacuations and relocating coastal residents, the authorities are prioritizing safety amid forecasts of severe weather conditions. Tourists are advised to cooperate with the evacuation orders and stay informed through official announcements as the situation develops.