BHUBANESWAR: At least 30 low-lying areas have been identified in the city by Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) to evacuate people if waterlogging takes place due to heavy rainfall under the influence of impending cyclone Dana.
Also, 80 cyclone shelters — mostly community halls and schools located in different wards — have been readied. BMC officials have visited the shelters in three zones to ensure they are habitable.If required, food will be distributed among the evacuees, BMC officials said.

BMC joint commissioner Kailash Chandra Das said an emergency meeting was held for cyclone mitigation measures with representatives from power and water supply, Odisha State Pollution Control Board, National Highways Authority of India, ODRAF and education, food supply and agriculture departments.
BMC’s zonal deputy commissioners have been asked to deploy personnel immediately after the cyclone recedes so that green waste can be collected and roads can be freed of obstructions. “Places have been designated where the bulk of green waste will be piled up temporarily,” said Das. Besides, BMC has identified 37 waterlogging points for immediate attention in case of a deluge.
BMC has also made provisions for injured and distressed animals during the cyclone. “We have kept ready 10 exclusive shelters. Various NGOs have been roped in to take care of the animals,” said a BMC officer.
To maintain sanitation during and after cyclone, additional sanitation workers will be deployed if required. For 24X7 water supply, Water Corporation of Odisha (WATCO) has been asked to make alternative provisions in case there are long power cuts.
There is no clarity yet on whether flight services will be suspended at Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA). BMC will coordinate with BPIA authorities to help stranded passengers in case the situation warrants. BMC officials said an early warning will be issued to fliers considering IMD’s advice to avoid going to the airport.
Housing and urban development secretary Usha Padhee on Monday reviewed the preparedness to tackle the cyclone in urban areas. All municipal commissioners of places that are likely to be affected attended the meet.
Officials said the department has emphasised the need for constant coordination with the district administration. “Urban flooding won’t be allowed for long in low-lying areas. Swift action will be taken to evacuate people and drain out water. In all the affected urban areas, dedicated teams will be ready to respond to any emergency situation,” said Padhee.