Bhubaneswar: In light of the impending Cyclone ‘Dana,’ the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has announced the closure of all monuments and museums under its jurisdiction in Odisha on October 24 and 25. The decision has been taken to prevent any potential damage or untoward incidents as the severe cyclonic storm approaches the state’s coastline.
The Superintending Archaeologist of Puri Circle issued an official order on Tuesday, instructing authorities at heritage sites and museums to enforce the closure on these dates as a precautionary measure. The monuments will remain closed to visitors, with efforts focused on safeguarding the historical structures from possible storm damage.
According to the latest bulletin from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the depression in the east-central Bay of Bengal has intensified into a deep depression, currently positioned about 690 km southeast of Odisha’s Paradip coast. It is expected to intensify into a cyclonic storm by October 23 and further develop into a severe cyclonic storm by the morning of October 24.
Cyclone Dana is predicted to cross the north Odisha and West Bengal coasts between Puri and Sagar Island during the night of October 24 or early morning on October 25, with wind speeds reaching 100-110 kmph, gusting up to 120 kmph. The ASI’s prompt closure order is part of a broader effort to minimize the impact on both heritage sites and public safety.