Bhubaneswar: A total of 8 lakh people were evacuated to safe cyclone shelters before the cyclone ‘Dana’ approached the coast. A total of 2,200 newborns were born during the cyclone, 18 women gave birth to twins, informed Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today, saying that both mothers and infants are safe.
The CM thanked everyone for the teamwork which helps managing the crisis. He said that the Meteorological Department reported that Cyclone “Dana” weakened into a deep depression.
However, heavy rains persisted in some areas, hindering rescue and restoration efforts. By today afternoon, road blockages caused by fallen trees were cleared. Initially, 22.43 lakh electricity consumers lost power, but 14.8 million have had their supply restored. Efforts are underway to restore electricity connection to remaining consumers by tomorrow.
The electricity supply was normalised in Bhadrak district by 9 PM. Preliminary estimates indicate 1.75 lakh acres of agricultural land were affected as per preliminary reports. The government will provide assistance after detailed damage assessments are made.
Houses and aid will be provided to those whose homes were destroyed or partially damaged after ground surveys. Most of the evacuees have returned home, while others remain in shelters. Cooked food will be provided in shelters for another seven days, the CM said.
Majhi directed officials to show compassion to affected people. Currently, 158 platoons of police have been deployed for the protection of life and properties in cyclone-affected areas. The successful management of the storm was attributed to inter-departmental coordination and teamwork, he added.
