West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was at Nabanna, the headquarters of the state administration, throughout the intervening night of Thursday and Friday to monitor cyclone Dana and issue necessary instructions to officials.

The cyclone made landfall at 3.30 am on Friday, following which it has been heavily raining in the state since morning, while winds are blowing in coastal areas. According to the state administration, while the cyclone largely affected Odisha, West Bengal’s coastal areas are likely to face flooding.

On Thursday, Banerjee had said, “A control room has been opened in Nabanna to monitor the situation 24/7 and take action… Other officials too will monitor the situation. The Chief Secretary will come early in the morning (on Friday) and I will go home then.”

On Friday, she spoke to administrative officers of the coastal districts, directing them to send relief materials and move people to safer areas or encourage them to stay home. Ministers were also ordered to stand by the people from the area. According to sources, the officers were asked about the extent of rescue work done.

The Chief Minister also instructed District Magistrates to make a list estimating total damage caused by the cyclone. She is set to hold a video conference with district magistrates of eight affected districts on Friday at 1 pm.

Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition in the state Assembly and BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari said, “This is nothing but drama. She can instruct her house through a mobile phone. She did this to attract the media and show that she is doing huge work. But ultimately, it will not help flood-affected people.”