Odisha, Bengal begin relief works after Cyclone Dana

CYCLONE WEAKENS INTO A DEEP DEPRESSION, MOVES WESTWARD

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Severe Cyclonic Storm Dana slammed into the eastern coast of India early Friday, triggering torrential rains, high-speed winds, and extensive damage across Odisha and West Bengal. The cyclone, which made landfall between Dhamra and Bhitarkanika past midnight, left a trail of destruction, uprooting trees and electric poles and causing significant infrastructural damage and crop loss across several districts.

While Odisha's "Zero Casualty Mission" successfully prevented loss of life within the state, West Bengal reported a single fatality. Authorities in both states launched extensive relief and rehabilitation operations as Cyclone Dana weakened into a deep depression, moving westward.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi commended the state's preparedness and successful evacuation efforts under the "Zero Casualty Mission."

Odisha Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari briefed reporters on Friday evening, emphasizing the swift progress in restoration efforts and outlining the government's response. Damage assessments will commence on Saturday with a target completion within seven days. Pujari confirmed that major road blockages caused by fallen trees have been cleared, and communication lines restored across most regions.

"Those who lost their homes in the cyclone will be Provided with pucca houses," he announced.