The Odisha government has initiated a massive evacuation plan, preparing to relocate 10 lakh people from 14 districts as Cyclone ‘Dana’ advances towards the state’s coast. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the cyclone, currently intensifying in the Bay of Bengal, is expected to make landfall between Bhitarkanika National Park and Dhamra Port on the night of October 24, with the landfall process continuing into the morning of October 25.

The IMD predicts that Cyclone Dana will bring wind speeds of up to 120 kmph during landfall, posing a severe threat to coastal areas. Director-General of IMD, Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, confirmed the potential impact, stating that the coastal districts, particularly Bhadrak, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, and Balasore, will bear the brunt of the storm. Heavy rainfall and storm surges are expected, leading to potential flooding and widespread damage in these regions.

The state government, in coordination with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), is working swiftly to evacuate vulnerable populations from low-lying and coastal areas. Cyclone shelters have been readied, and arrangements for food, water, and medical supplies are in place. The administration is also urging residents to follow official advisories and move to safety as soon as possible.

“Public safety is our utmost priority. We have deployed multiple teams to ensure that the evacuation is completed smoothly. All necessary precautions are being taken to mitigate the impact of the cyclone,” said Odisha’s Special Relief Commissioner, Pradeep Jena.

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea, and ports have been instructed to halt operations. The Odisha government has also suspended all educational institutions in the affected districts and is preparing for the restoration of power and communication networks post-landfall.

Cyclone Dana is the first major cyclone to hit Odisha this year, and authorities are leaving no stone unturned to minimize casualties and damage. With memories of past cyclones fresh in the minds of many, the state is bracing for what could be a long and challenging recovery ahead.