"We are prepared": Odisha Director of Health Services Mohapatra said ahead of cyclone 'Dana'

Bhubaneswar: With a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal likely to turn into a severe cyclonic storm by October 23, Odisha Director of Health Services Bijay Kumar Mohapatra assured that the state health department is fully prepared to tackle the situation arising out of the cyclone.
As per the Indian Meterological Department (IMD), a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal is likely to turn into a severe cyclonic storm by October 23. It is expected to reach the coasts adjoining Odisha and West Bengal by Thursday and it is likely that Cyclone will bring heavy rains till Friday. The cyclone has been named 'Dana'.
Speaking to ANI, Bijay Kumar Mohapatra said, "We are prepared... Every year we are anticipating cyclones and we are facing those cyclones. we have a definite protocol for preparation of management."
"At the facility level, where all service providers will be available, no leave will be allowed. we are ensuring the logistics of the drug and consumable supply, specifically the anti-venom snake drug. We are also ensuring the provision of safe drinking water and 24-hour electricity," Mohapatra added.
Mohapatra further said that his department is also under surveillance for the Dirroehea cases aftermath of the cyclone.
"Aftermath of the cyclone there are chances of waterlogging leading to diarrhoea, so those things will be under surveillance and actions will be taken," he said.
Meanwhile, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said, "Zero casualties will be ensured. There is no need to panic. The government is fully prepared to tackle the situation," Majhi said after a review meeting on the state's cyclone preparedness.
"One hundred per cent evacuation will be done after identifying vulnerable areas. NDRF, ODRAF and Fire Services teams are kept ready. The government is closely monitoring the situation," Majhi said.
The Chief Minister said cyclone shelters will be equipped with all necessities and essential commodities.
"Discussion was also held for early restoration of power and water supply and telephone and road communication. Uninterrupted electricity will be ensured to hospitals. The concerned department has already kept a close watch to prevent hoarding or overcharging of essential commodities," the Chief Minister said.
Odisha Director General of Police Sudhansu Sekhar Sadangi has said that the police's preparations are in place to tackle the situations arising out of cyclone 'Dana.'
"We are waiting for the cyclone to hit; whether it will hit Bangladesh or Odisha, our action will depend on that and preparations are in place for now," Sadangi told reporters.