Cyclone Dana Spurs Massive Evacuations Along Odisha Coastline

As Cyclone Dana approaches the Odisha coast, the government plans to evacuate 10 lakh people from danger zones. By Wednesday evening, 30% had been relocated, with more expected by Thursday. The cyclone threatens to make landfall between Bhitarkanika and Dhamra, bringing heavy rain and winds up to 120 kmph.

As Cyclone Dana looms over the Odisha coast, threatening nearly half of the state's population, state officials scramble to execute an extensive evacuation plan. The initiative aims to safely relocate about 10 lakh residents from multiple coastal districts.

By Wednesday evening, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi reported that 30% or around 3-4 lakh individuals from 'danger zones' were evacuated. Efforts continue to ensure the rest are relocated by 11 a.m. Thursday.

The India Meteorological Department warns Cyclone Dana will make landfall between Bhitarkanika National Park and Dhamra port, bringing winds up to 120 kmph, while affecting areas with severe rain and tidal surges.

(With inputs from agencies.)