Odisha's Ecological Havens Brace for Cyclonic Onslaught

The Odisha government announced the closure of Similipal Tiger Reserve and Bhitarkanika National Park due to an impending severe cyclonic storm. The IMD forecast indicated the storm would hit between October 24 and 25, posing significant risks to the 'Red Zone' districts of Mayurbhanj and Kendrapara.

Amidst warnings of an impending severe cyclonic storm, the Odisha government has taken precautionary measures by temporarily closing two of its renowned ecological sites. The Similipal Tiger Reserve and Bhitarkanika National Park, situated in the 'Red Zone' districts of Mayurbhanj and Kendrapara respectively, will remain shut between October 23 and 25.

Authorities have identified a possible trajectory for the storm, predicted to impact the eastern coastline between the night of October 24 and the morning of October 25. With predicted wind speeds of up to 110 km/h and heavy rainfall, the storm poses significant risks to the region's biodiversity and local communities.

Officials have reassured that reopening dates for the parks will be determined following thorough assessments of the post-storm conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has suggested that the cyclone may cross landfall between Puri in Odisha and Sagar Island in West Bengal.

(With inputs from agencies.)