Flights and Trains Resume as Bhubaneswar Recovers from Cyclone Dana
After Cyclone Dana made landfall along Odisha’s coast, Bhubaneswar’s Biju Patnaik International Airport resumed flight services at 8 a.m. on Friday, marking the region’s gradual return to normalcy. Following airport closures from Thursday evening, operations were suspended to ensure passenger safety, while the Indian Railways halted over 200 trains across Odisha. Train services are set to resume at staggered intervals, with the Howrah-Bangalore Duronto Express leading the way. Rail routes from Bhubaneswar and Puri are operational as of noon, although several services remain temporarily suspended for repairs and safety checks.
Indian Railways Implements Safety Measures During Cyclone
As Cyclone Dana approached, Indian Railways implemented swift measures, cancelling 203 trains to safeguard passengers from potential storm-related hazards. The East Coast Railway (ECoR) confirmed that only non-cancelled trains are currently running as scheduled, with services on the Visakhapatnam and Bhubaneswar routes gradually reopening. The strategic halting and planned reopening underscore the Railway’s commitment to passenger safety during extreme weather events.
Odisha Police’s Unyielding Efforts Amid Cyclone Dana’s Wrath
Throughout the crisis, the Odisha Police displayed unparalleled bravery, coordinating large-scale evacuation and rescue efforts to save lives and prevent injuries. Despite the cyclone’s challenges, police personnel remained vigilant, assisting vulnerable populations, rescuing stranded residents, and providing aid to those with urgent medical needs. Guided by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Director General of Police YB Khurania, Odisha Police safeguarded communities from the worst of Dana’s impact, earning admiration for their selflessness and dedication.
Mass Evacuations Reflect Police’s Readiness and Compassion
Ahead of Cyclone Dana’s landfall, Odisha Police undertook extensive evacuation efforts, helping relocate more than 300,000 residents to safer areas. Their swift response and unwavering presence reassured residents, even as the cyclone’s intensity caused major damage across three coastal districts. Police officers, often staying alongside evacuees in cyclone shelters, provided comfort to those frightened by the storm, ensuring a compassionate and vigilant approach that highlighted their readiness to put public safety above their own needs.
Acts of Valor: Police Rescue Operations in Basudevpur and Kendrapara
Cyclone Dana left communities in districts like Basudevpur and Kendrapara vulnerable to heavy flooding and destructive winds. Here, Odisha Police carried out daring rescue operations, guiding families to safety from flood-prone and low-lying areas. These tireless efforts extended beyond the call of duty, with officers enduring the storm’s harsh conditions to bring children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities to safe shelters. Their bravery underscored the police force’s commitment to protecting all members of the community, regardless of the challenges.
Police Presence Reassures Residents to Evacuate
One of the most critical responsibilities of Odisha Police during the cyclone was to reassure residents reluctant to leave their homes. Police personnel went door to door, urging families to take shelter in safe locations, a move that potentially saved hundreds of lives. The officers’ presence and encouragement gave hesitant residents the confidence to evacuate, reducing the cyclone’s impact on human life.
Odisha Police’s Heroic Dedication During Natural Disasters
As first responders in times of crisis, Odisha Police have shown that their role extends far beyond maintaining law and order. From earthquakes to cyclones, their rapid deployment during disasters helps ensure community safety and well-being. Cyclone Dana served as a powerful reminder of their commitment to public service, as their swift, coordinated efforts undoubtedly prevented greater loss and damage. With ongoing risks of flash floods, the police are set to continue their vigilant work, embodying a dedication to duty and an indomitable spirit in the face of nature’s challenges.
Building Trust Through Dedication and Compassion
As Odisha rebuilds in the aftermath of Cyclone Dana, the dedication of its police force stands as a testament to their compassion and professionalism. Their tireless efforts to safeguard communities have earned them widespread respect and gratitude. The courage displayed by the Odisha Police during Cyclone Dana highlights not only their resilience but also their commitment to serve as guardians of public safety, especially during times when their bravery makes a life-saving difference.
IMD Issues Flash Flood Warnings Across Odisha
With Cyclone Dana moving inland, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted flash floods in 16 districts of Odisha due to expected heavy rainfall. Areas at risk include Balasore, Cuttack, Ganjam, Khurda, and Puri, among others. The IMD’s alert emphasizes low to moderate flash flood risks, urging residents in affected zones to remain vigilant over the next 24 hours as watershed areas become increasingly vulnerable. Odisha Police remain on high alert, prepared to respond to any further emergencies arising from potential flooding.
(With inputs from agencies)
