Bhubaneswar, October 24: As coastal regions of Odisha and West Bengal are bracing for the severe impact of Cyclone Dana, the Indian Armed Forces, particularly the Navy, are now on high alert.
The Eastern Naval Command has initiated extensive preparations for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations in collaboration with naval officers stationed across Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and West Bengal.
Two ships from the Eastern Fleet have been deployed with essential supplies, including rescue teams and diving units, to support relief efforts by sea.
The Indian Navy has assured full support to the affected regions, closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with state authorities for medical aid through units such as Base Victualling Yard (BVY), Material Organisation, and Naval Hospital INHS Kalyani.
The Navy has stockpiled essential supplies like clothing, food, water, and medicines, and disaster response pallets have been strategically placed in high-risk areas. The Air Force has prepared IL-76 and AN-32 aircraft to transport relief supplies to Bhubaneswar, while marine vessels and remote-operating stations have been activated.
Cyclone Dana is expected to make landfall between Bhitarkanika in Kendrapara district and Dhamra in Bhadrak district late on October 24 or early on October 25. Following the landfall, the storm may slightly recurve, bringing heavy rainfall to southern Odisha by October 26.
Since Wednesday, coastal districts in Odisha have been experiencing rainfall, with wind speeds steadily increasing. Reports indicate that trees have been uprooted in some areas, and fire services personnel, along with rescue teams, are working to clear roads and ensure public safety.
