Flood Situation in North Odisha Improves Post Cyclone Dana, Chief Minister Reports

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced that the flood situation in north Odisha has improved after cyclone Dana. He assured that aid will be given to those affected once the damage is evaluated. Majhi conducted an aerial survey of the impacted regions for the second day in a row, observing the cyclone's effects in Kendrapara, Balasore, Bhadrak, and Mayurbhanj districts.

Majhi noted, "I assessed the situation of cyclone and flood damages in the districts of Kendrapara, Balasore, Bhadrak and Mayurbhanj. The situation is now better than before. The damage will be assessed as soon as possible and assistance will be provided to the affected people." His survey included viewing the cyclone's landfall point at Habelikhati shore in Kendrapara district.

Impact of Cyclone Dana on Odisha

The cyclone made landfall at Habelikhati with winds reaching 120 kmph. Majhi also observed the dense mangrove forest in Habelikhati, which played a crucial role in mitigating the impact of high-velocity winds during the cyclone's landfall. Officials highlighted that these natural barriers helped reduce wind speed and prevent tidal ingress.

During a review meeting at Chandipur in Balasore, Majhi discussed long-term solutions to combat cyclones. He emphasised the importance of planting mangrove forests along the coast to counteract high-speed winds effectively. This initiative aims to provide a sustainable defence against future cyclones.

Restoration Efforts and Government Initiatives

Majhi expressed gratitude to MLAs and MPs for their cooperation in managing the cyclone and flood situation. He reiterated the state government's commitment to assisting affected individuals and restoring electricity in flooded areas. Restoration and rehabilitation measures are being reviewed by Majhi and his team.

The Chief Minister instructed officials to prepare a damage report by November 2 for submission to the Centre. This report will help facilitate further assistance and support from central authorities. The government is actively working on restoring normalcy in affected regions.

Role of Mangroves in Mitigating Cyclone Damage

Odisha’s Principal Chief Conservator of Forest PCCF and Wildlife Susant Nanda highlighted on social media that Habelikhati's ecotour camps within Bhitarkanika National Park remained safe due to surrounding mangroves. "The place where cyclone DANA made landfall - ecotour camps of Habelikhati. Situated inside Bhitarkanika National Park with mangroves all around is safe. The forests reduced the wind speed and stopped the tidal ingress. All the more reason to protect mangroves for our future safety," he stated.

Cyclone Dana struck Odisha on October 25, affecting approximately 36 lakh people across 14 districts. It caused significant damage to standing crops, impacting livelihoods and agriculture in these areas. The government is focused on providing relief and support to those impacted by this natural disaster.