Cyclone Dana: Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), Oct 24: As severe cyclonic storm ‘Dana’ approaches the Odisha coast, set to make landfall by Friday morning, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari emphasized the importance of the next 48 hours, declaring a high alert in 13 districts. He reassured residents that there is no need to panic but urged them to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions for their safety during the cyclone.
To address the impending disaster, the state government has accelerated the evacuation of individuals from high-risk areas to safe locations and cyclone shelters. Over one million people are being relocated from vulnerable areas, and 6,500 relief centers have been established to accommodate them. The government has also arranged for cooked meals, shelter, and medical facilities.
Additionally, teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), and Fire Services are on standby for rescue and relief operations.
Minister Pujari noted that the cyclone is anticipated to bring heavy rainfall of up to 20 cm and strong winds gusting up to 150 km/h, with districts such as Mayurbhanj, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Balasore, Bhadrak, and Kendrapada expected to be particularly hard hit. He urged residents to move to safety, assuring them that government agencies are fully prepared to manage the situation.
