 |
|
The impending cyclonic storm in the Bay of Bengal has prompted the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to deploy 25 teams in Odisha and West Bengal, signifying the seriousness of the situation. The storm, which is expected to make landfall between Puri and Sagar Island on Thursday, October 24th, has triggered a comprehensive response from the Indian government.
The National Crisis Management Committee convened a meeting on Monday to assess the preparedness for the approaching cyclone. Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan was briefed on the deployment of NDRF teams, along with additional rescue and relief units from the Army, Navy, and Coast Guard. The meeting also included the chief secretaries of Odisha and West Bengal, who are directly responsible for managing the situation within their respective states.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) provided the committee with a detailed forecast, predicting the deep pressure area in the Bay of Bengal would intensify into a cyclonic storm by October 23rd. The storm is expected to move northwestwards and reach the coast off Odisha and West Bengal by the morning of October 24th. By the night of October 24th and early morning of October 25th, the storm is projected to cross the coasts as a severe cyclonic storm with wind speeds reaching 100-110 kmph, potentially causing significant damage.
The government has taken several precautionary measures. Ports like Paradip and Haldia are receiving regular alerts and advisories about the developing storm. Emergency teams from the Union ministries of Power and Telecommunication have been mobilized for immediate restoration efforts. The situation is being closely monitored by authorities.
Cabinet Secretary Somanathan emphasized the need for proactive measures from Odisha and West Bengal, aiming to minimize casualties and damage to property and infrastructure. He stressed the importance of calling back fishermen at sea and evacuating residents from vulnerable areas well in advance. The central government has assured the states of full support from all agencies.
Somanathan advised neighboring states, including Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand, to prepare for potential heavy rainfall resulting from the cyclone. He also emphasized the importance of managing dam releases to prevent flooding in the affected areas. Odisha and West Bengal have detailed plans in place, including the activation of control rooms, monitoring the situation, and ensuring the availability of shelters, power, medicine, and emergency services.
Both states have initiated public safety measures. Fishermen have been instructed to stay ashore, and those at sea have been advised to seek safe harbor. Residents of vulnerable areas have been identified for potential evacuation. This coordinated effort from the central government, state governments, and various agencies underscores the gravity of the impending cyclone and the importance of preparedness to minimize loss of life and property damage.
Source: Bay of Bengal cyclone: 25 teams of NDRF on standby in Odisha, WB