The Odisha government has initiated rehabilitation and restoration efforts following the devastation caused by Cyclone Dana, which struck on October 25. The cyclone severely damaged public infrastructure, uprooted trees, and snapped power lines, leading to significant challenges in affected regions.
Local teams have been active in rescuing individuals from villages in Balasore and Bhadrak districts, where flash floods have resulted from intense rainfall. The cyclone claimed the lives of four people before weakening into a low-pressure system over northern Odisha.
In response to the flooding, the Odisha government launched an evacuation drive in Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts due to rising water levels in the Budhabalang River, which heightened the risk of further inundation in localities. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that the low-pressure system is expected to weaken further and may become insignificant by October 27.
As part of the recovery efforts, electricity has been restored to 92% of homes in the affected districts. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Manjhi reported that 809,513 individuals were evacuated during the cyclone, with 110,770 still residing in relief camps. He assured that they would be provided shelter and food until the waters recede.
The Chief Minister also noted that 20 villages in the Remuna and Balasore Sadar blocks have been impacted by flooding. The evacuation process is being carried out on a war footing, with residents being moved to safer areas and provided with cooked meals at shelters.
Damage assessments for crops affected by the cyclone will take place once the rain subsides. According to Deputy Chief Minister KV Singh Deo, 14 districts have been impacted, with Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Balasore, Jajpur, and Mayurbhanj being the hardest hit.
Meanwhile, Kolkata experienced clear skies on Sunday following heavy rainfall from Cyclone Dana. Local officials reported that water levels have receded in many areas, providing relief to residents. However, several districts, including Hooghly, Bankura, Jhargram, Purba Medinipur, and Paschim Medinipur, remain waterlogged due to the extensive downpour.
The heavy rains have caused significant damage to farmland, particularly affecting crops like paddy and potatoes. IMD officials have warned that isolated heavy rains are still likely in parts of Purba Medinipur, Paschim Medinipur, and Jhargram, although an overall improvement in weather conditions is anticipated from Sunday.
These developments highlight the ongoing challenges faced by Odisha and West Bengal as they navigate the aftermath of Cyclone Dana while prioritising the safety and well-being of their residents.