Odisha Govt Warns Against Hoarding & Black-Marketing During Cyclone ‘Dana’

Cuttack: With IMD forecasting severe cyclonic storm ‘Dana’ hitting Odisha coast on October 24, the state government has warned against hoarding and black-marketing of the essential commodities.

Speaking to media persons in Cuttack on Sunday, Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra said the government was totally prepared for the cyclone Dana from all aspects.

Though desperate purchase by the people is likely in apprehension of the cyclone, he warned the traders of taking advantage the situation. He said stringent action would be taken against anybody found hoarding the essential commodities during the cyclone.

“The government will come down strongly on any shop-keeper, wholesaler or trader if hoarding or black-marketing of goods is detected. The officials of all districts have been alerted about the situation and there should be no deficit of any commodity,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director-General of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) earlier in the day said Odisha is likely to bear the brunt of ‘Dana’, which is likely to form over Eastcentral Bay of Bengal by October 23.

Mohapatra said the system is likely to take the shape of a severe cyclonic storm. “The impact of the cyclone will be felt in the coastal areas of Odisha. Squally weather with wind speed of 40-50 kmph gusting up to 60 kmph may prevail along the coasts of Odisha from October 23 evening and increase to 100-120 kmph from October 24 night till October 25 morning,” he added.

Also Read: Odisha To Face Brunt Of Possible Cyclone ‘Dana’, Wind Speed@100-120 Kmph By Oct 24: IMD DG