NCMC Gears Up for Upcoming Bay of Bengal Cyclone

Cabinet Secretary TV Somanathan led a meeting reviewing preparedness for a cyclone predicted to intensify in the Bay of Bengal. The cyclone is expected to hit Odisha and West Bengal coasts by October 24, 2024. Measures are in place to ensure safety, with NDRF teams on standby and evacuation plans activated.

The National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) convened on Monday under the leadership of Cabinet Secretary TV Somanathan to assess readiness for a cyclone brewing in the Bay of Bengal. India's Meteorological Department's Director General presented an update on the low-pressure area likely to develop into a depression and later a cyclonic storm by October 23, 2024.

Forecasts indicate the storm will track northwest towards the Odisha-West Bengal coast, expecting landfall as a severe cyclonic storm with wind speeds up to 120 kmph by the night of October 24. State officials from Odisha and West Bengal have detailed their emergency measures, including restricting fishermen from venturing out, activating control rooms, and preparing evacuation plans.

With support from the Army, Navy, and Coast Guard, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams are on standby, and provisions such as emergency shelters and supplies are in place. Government emphasis remains on minimizing any potential loss of life and property, maintaining communication with affected ports, and expediting service restoration post-impact.

(With inputs from agencies.)