Indian Railways Manage Cyclone Dana Impact; Rescue Efforts Underway

Indian Railways announced Friday that train schedules remain unchanged except for previously canceled trains due to Cyclone Dana in affected states. Rescue operations are ongoing in Odisha, with minimal reported damage. Political leaders urge safety measures and government support in impacted areas.

On Friday, Indian Railways confirmed that train operations would continue as scheduled, aside from previously canceled services in states affected by Cyclone Dana. The railway ministry assured that trains from the south heading north towards Bhubaneswar and Howrah would operate normally.

Furthermore, trains departing Kharagpur en route to Visakhapatnam are set to arrive at Bhadrak Station at around 1400 hours, beginning with the 12245 Howrah-Bangalore Duronto Express. Scheduled services from Bhubaneswar and Puri are slated to commence post-1200 hours, barring those already canceled. Relief and rescue missions have been initiated in cyclone-hit districts of Odisha.

In an interview with ANI, NDRF DIG Mohsen Shahedi discussed the ongoing relief efforts post-cyclone Dana, which made landfall late on October 24 and early on October 25. The cyclone, initially severe, has weakened into a deep depression, with no major damage reported. Regular services, including air travel, have resumed.

According to IMD's update, Cyclone Dana moved north-northwest at 7 km/h, positioning near latitude 21.4° N and longitude 86.6° E by 1130 HRS IST on October 25. The cyclone is forecasted to weaken as it travels westward across North Odisha.

Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, called for comprehensive efforts to safeguard lives and properties in affected zones. In a Facebook post, he emphasized the necessity for Congress support in relief operations and urged locals to follow governmental safety directives. Gandhi also stressed the importance of central government assistance for those impacted.

(With inputs from agencies.)