Bhubaneswar, October 25, 2024: Flight operations at Bhubaneswar’s Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) are set to resume at 8 AM today, following temporary suspension due to the impact of Cyclone Dana. The cyclone, which has been battering parts of Odisha and neighboring states with heavy rain and gusty winds, led to precautionary measures across the region, including grounding flights and evacuating coastal areas.
Airport authorities confirmed that the situation is now under control, and safety inspections have been carried out on the runways and airport infrastructure. “We have ensured that all necessary protocols are in place for safe resumption of flights. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates on rescheduled flights,” said an official from BPIA.
Cyclone Dana, classified as a “severe cyclonic storm,” made landfall late yesterday near the Odisha coast, causing disruptions in transportation, electricity, and communication services. Several trains were cancelled, and road traffic was significantly affected by waterlogging and uprooted trees.
Impact on Coastal Areas
The Odisha government had earlier evacuated over 50,000 people from vulnerable areas as a preventive measure. Relief teams, including personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), have been deployed to the affected districts to assist with rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Power outages and minor property damage have been reported, but no major casualties have been confirmed as of now.
Flight Resumptions and Passenger Advisory
With improved weather conditions, air travel is expected to return to normalcy gradually. However, passengers flying in or out of Bhubaneswar are urged to remain cautious and check flight statuses via the airport’s official website or through airline customer service.
Cyclone Dana continues to weaken as it moves inland, but authorities have advised residents in low-lying areas to stay alert for potential flash floods and landslides. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has downgraded the cyclone’s intensity but continues to monitor the situation closely.
Stay tuned for more updates on Cyclone Dana and the impact on flight schedules.
