The Business Bytes
New Delhi, October 24, 2024 (TBB Bureau): In anticipation of the severe Cyclone ‘Dana’, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW) has implemented an extensive safety protocol to protect port infrastructure, vessels, and personnel. The Minister of State for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shantanu Thakur, chaired a high-level review meeting to evaluate the preparedness of the Ministry, the Directorate General of Shipping, and the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
With Cyclone ‘Dana’ intensifying over the East-central Bay of Bengal, Shantanu Thakur emphasized the importance of a coordinated response to mitigate the potential impact on maritime operations and safeguard lives. “We are taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of all stakeholders, and it is crucial to stay vigilant as the cyclone approaches,” said the Minister.
The cyclone, expected to make landfall between Odisha and West Bengal on the night of October 24, is predicted to bring wind speeds of 100-110 km/hour, with gusts reaching up to 120 km/hour. In response, all vessels at Paradip Port have been instructed to ensure stability and prepare their engines for possible sea departure by noon on October 23. Vessels with light drafts are taking on heavy weather ballast, and those at Paradip Anchorage are moving to safer sea zones.
The Minister also urged the Kolkata Port and Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port authorities to maintain full preparedness, despite the expected lower impact in their regions. “We must be ready for any unforeseen developments to prevent loss of life and property,” he added.
At Paradip Port, all dredgers, barges, and support crafts are being secured, with specific vessels like DCI Dredge XV, XVI, and XVIII, as well as DCI Dredge Ganga, moving to safer areas. The port has also taken measures to secure heavy machinery, such as mobile cranes and ship unloaders, at critical locations including PPL, IFFCO, KICT, MCHP, and IOHP.
Additional precautions are being implemented in under-construction areas, with high mast lights, loading arms, and gangways being secured. Emergency services, including evacuation buses, power saws for tree cutting, and rations, are being prepared in coordination with the Paradeep Port Authority.
The Ministry is working closely with local and state authorities to facilitate evacuation efforts, ensuring that cyclone shelters are stocked with medicines, clean drinking water, and food supplies for affected communities.
MoPSW’s comprehensive approach reflects its commitment to minimizing the impact of Cyclone ‘Dana’ on port operations and ensuring maritime safety during severe weather conditions. As the storm intensifies, the Ministry remains focused on maintaining operational continuity while prioritizing the safety of personnel and assets.
