West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday announced that the state administration has identified over 3.5 lakh people for evacuation from low-lying areas in anticipation of Cyclone Dana.
Banerjee urged residents to cooperate with officials and take all necessary precautions as the cyclone approaches.
“We have identified 3,56,941 people for evacuation from vulnerable zones,” Banerjee said during a press briefing at the state secretariat. She confirmed that 2,43,374 people had already taken shelter in relief camps by Thursday afternoon.
To ensure effective management of the situation, Banerjee declared that she would stay overnight at the state secretariat to personally monitor the cyclone’s developments.
She added that the chief secretary and home secretary would remain on standby from their homes, rejoining her on Friday morning for further coordination.
Banerjee also cautioned the public against spreading rumours or creating panic, emphasising that calm and cooperation were vital to the evacuation effort.
“We have activated a 24X7 helpline (2214 3526) for any assistance. I request everyone to follow the advice of the police and administration. Do not venture into the waters, and please note that fishing is strictly prohibited at this time,” she said, stressing the importance of staying indoors and obeying orders.
Educational institutions have been closed across the state as a precautionary measure to ensure student safety.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that Cyclone Dana will likely make landfall between Bhitarkanika National Park and Dhamra Port in
Odisha early Friday morning, with wind speeds reaching 120 kmph. Heavy rains are expected to lash both Odisha and West Bengal during and after the landfall.
Banerjee reassured citizens that the administration is fully prepared to handle the situation, urging them to stay alert and adhere to evacuation notices where necessary.
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