Cyclone Dana affects 3.59 lakh in Odisha, relief operations in full swing

Bhubaneswar, Oct 27: Revenue and Disaster Management Minister, Suresh Pujari, said on Sunday that Cyclone Dana and subsequent floods have affected around 3.59 lakh people across 14 districts in the state.

Pujari shared that nearly 8.1 lakh people have been moved to 6,210 relief centers, with Kendrapara, Balasore, and Bhadrak among the worst-hit areas. Fortunately, there have been no reported fatalities due to the cyclone.

"As of 10:30 am on Sunday, evacuated residents have taken shelter in 1,178 cyclone relief centers, where they are being provided with cooked meals and other essential supplies," he said. Additionally, the government is distributing polythene sheets to those who have lost their homes.

Cyclone Dana, which made landfall early Friday, impacted residents across 1,671 gram panchayats in 108 blocks within 14 Odisha districts. Preliminary assessments show that approximately 5,840 homes have sustained full or partial damage due to the storm and flooding, according to Pujari.

In response, the state government is considering a phased plan to provide pucca houses to residents affected by recurring disasters. Pujari added that a survey will soon be conducted to assess kutcha houses in areas vulnerable to cyclones and floods.