Cyclone Dana has caused significant disruption in daily life across Odisha and West Bengal due to heavy rains and strong winds. Making landfall just after midnight on Thursday, the cyclone has led to interruptions in civic services and extensive damage to crops and trees. The effects of the storm are anticipated to diminish by early Friday morning.
Evacuations and Safety Measures
In anticipation of Cyclone Dana, more than 700,000 individuals evacuated coastal regions, seeking refuge in shelters throughout both states, as reported by Reuters. Odisha’s Chief Minister, Mohan Charan Majhi, announced on Friday that there have been no reported casualties, underscoring the success of the state’s “Zero Casualty” initiative.
Key Highlights of Cyclone Dana
Landfall Timing: The cyclone made landfall shortly after midnight, impacting the coasts of Odisha and West Bengal, with the entire process taking nearly 10 hours to complete.
Evacuations in Odisha: Approximately 600,000 residents have been relocated to safety in Odisha, which includes 6,000 pregnant women sent to health facilities.
Restoration Efforts: Following the landfall, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) commenced restoration operations in the districts of Kendrapada, Bhadrak, and Jagatsinghpur.
Successful Casualty Mission: The “Zero Casualty” mission launched by the Odisha government proved successful, as there were no fatalities reported as a result of Cyclone Dana.
Flooding Impact: The cyclone triggered flooding along the coast, raising sea levels by as much as 1.15 meters (3.75 feet).
Flight Operations Resume: Flight operations at Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in West Bengal resumed on Friday morning.
Train Services Restored: Over 200 trains that had been canceled in Odisha and West Bengal have resumed their services.
Blocked Roads: Strong winds and heavy rainfall uprooted trees, blocking several roads in coastal Odisha.
Power Outages: Cyclone Dana caused damage to power lines in Odisha, resulting in electricity outages in some areas; however, restoration of power is expected by Friday afternoon.
Port Status: No damage has been reported at any ports, including Paradip, which is India’s largest port located in Odisha.