In brief
Approximately one million people are relocated as Cyclone Dana, a Category 1 storm, nears landfall in eastern India.
As Tropical Cyclone Dana approaches the eastern coast of India, around one million residents have been evacuated from parts of West Bengal and Odisha. The storm, which has intensified to the strength of a Category 1 hurricane with winds reaching 75 miles per hour, is predicted to make landfall by early Friday. In response to the impending threat, both states have established over 5,000 relief camps to provide shelter to those being relocated. Suresh Pujari, the minister of revenue and disaster management for Odisha, confirmed the extensive evacuations, which aim to protect residents from the anticipated flooding and landslides associated with the cyclone. Memories of the destructive cyclone that struck the region in 1999, which resulted in nearly 10,000 fatalities, remain fresh in the minds of those affected. Odisha, known for its significant population living in vulnerable coastal areas, has since improved its preparedness through the establishment of a disaster management agency and the creation of evacuation routes and shelters.In anticipation of the storm, the Indian government has mobilized its navy and other rescue services to assist in disaster relief efforts. The India Meteorological Department has issued warnings of heavy rainfall, predicting two to four inches of rain, while some areas may experience even more significant downpours. As a precaution, numerous flights and over 100 train services have been suspended, with Kolkata Airport and Biju Patnaik International Airport ceasing operations for a minimum of 15 hours. School activities, including classes and exams, have been halted in districts across Odisha and West Bengal, and fishing activities have been prohibited in the Bay of Bengal.The storm poses significant risks of damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and utilities, escalating the urgency of evacuation and disaster preparedness in the affected areas.
