Balasore, Bhadark, is likely to be the most affected; more than 5,500 shelters remain ready, the minister says

As severe cyclonic storm Dana approaches Odisha, over 5,500 cyclonic shelters have been made ready to ensure safety and security for people living in vulnerable parts of the state, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said on Wednesday.

Addressing the media on cyclone preparedness ahead of the state cabinet meeting, Pujari said, “People in the vulnerable region have been urged to reach the nearest cyclone shelters by evening today. More than 5,500 shelters, including permanent and temporary centres, have been prepared with all facilities in view of Cyclone Dana.”

“From arranging cooked food to medicines and child food is kept ready. If people notice theft as soon as they move to the cyclone shelters, I want to tell them that police forces will be deployed in the villages,” Pujari added.

Sharing the impact of the severe cyclonic storm on Odisha, he said, “As per the forecast, as many as 13 districts are likely to be affected by Cyclone Dana and we have prepared accordingly.”

“As per the latest forecast this morning, Balasore and Bhadrak are likely to be the worst affected. I will urge people not to take chances and move to the cyclone centers as life is more precious,” he added.

Earlier in the day, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said that Cyclone Dana was likely to make landfall somewhere between Bhitarkanika and Dhamra.

The maximum impact of Cyclone Dana is likely to occur on the night of October 24 and early morning of October 25, the IMD predicted.

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