Approximately 8,317 villages within 107 blocks & 426 wards of 31 ULBs have faced challenges post the cyclonic storm
OdishaPlus Bureau
A total of 3.595 million individuals across 14 districts in the state have been impacted by Cyclone Dana, which struck the Odisha coast in the early hours of October 25. Approximately 8,317 villages within 107 blocks and 426 wards of 31 urban local bodies have experienced the effects of the cyclonic storm, with Kendrapara, Balasore and Bhadrak identified as the most severely affected districts, as stated by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday.
During the day, Majhi conducted an aerial assessment of the Paradip, Mahakalapada, Rajnagar, Rajkanika and Chandbali regions, accompanied by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari and Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja. Following the survey, the chief minister instructed various departments and district collectors to provide damage assessment reports by November 2, ensuring that assistance could be extended to the affected individuals promptly.
The chief minister also evaluated the post-cyclone recovery efforts, noting that power supply has been restored to approximately 98 percent of households. Out of the 2.284 million households that experienced power outages, service has been reinstated for around 230,000 households, with the remaining 50,000 expected to be completed by Monday.
Preliminary estimates indicate that crops have sustained damage across 271,800 acres in 4,100 villages spanning five districts: Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Balasore, Jajpur and Mayurbhanj. A physical assessment of crop loss will be conducted once the water levels recede and farmers will receive compensation based on the damage reports, as mentioned by the chief minister.
The chief minister reported that more than 810,000 individuals were evacuated to 6,210 cyclone relief shelters, noting that the majority have since returned to their homes. However, he mentioned that 470 cyclone shelters remain operational, providing cooked meals and other essential services to approximately 30,000 individuals.
He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for the central government’s support, which was instrumental in effectively managing the cyclone’s impact. The chief minister highlighted the crucial role played by NDRF teams dispatched by the Centre in saving lives during the disaster.
Additionally, the chief minister acknowledged the exemplary efforts of the Fire Services and other state government agencies throughout the cyclone. He reported that fire personnel responded to 6,000 calls regarding fallen trees on residences, with teams promptly addressing each situation. He also extended his thanks to ministers, collectors, government employees and all those involved in the rescue and relief efforts.
