In 2024, the eastern Indian state of Odisha faced a devastating tropical cyclone, causing widespread damage to infrastructure, loss of life, and severe environmental impact. Cyclones in this region are known for high-intensity winds, torrential rains, and tidal surges, affecting millions of residents. This report provides an overview of the comprehensive rescue operations conducted by governmental agencies, the military, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), evaluating both the effective strategies implemented and areas that could be strengthened for future disaster response efforts.
The cyclone, categorized as “extremely severe,” made landfall on October, 2024, with winds surpassing 180 km/h. Coastal districts such as Ganjam, Puri, and Kendrapara were especially hard hit, suffering extensive flooding, structural collapses, and massive power outages. Early assessments indicated that the cyclone displaced over 500,000 people, prompting thousands to seek refuge in temporary emergency shelters.
The rescue operations were organized into four key phases: Pre-Disaster Preparation, Immediate Response, Ongoing Rescue Efforts, and Recovery and Rehabilitation. In the Pre-Disaster phase, government agencies collaborated with meteorological departments to predict the cyclone’s course and intensity, leading to the evacuation of over 700,000 individuals from vulnerable coastal areas. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued timely warnings through SMS, radio, and social media to inform the public, while over 1,000 shelters were stocked with food, water, and medical supplies. These efforts were complemented by coordinated disaster drills that brought together state and central government agencies and NGO partners to ensure seamless operations.
As the cyclone made landfall, immediate rescue actions commenced. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the Indian Coast Guard, and the Indian Navy mobilized search and rescue teams equipped with specialized tools to handle collapsed structures, boats for flooded areas, and helicopters for aerial evacuations. Satellite phones and wireless radios ensured continued communication despite power outages, while mobile health clinics were established to offer first aid, trauma care, and essential medications to those in need.
In the Ongoing Rescue Efforts phase, the focus shifted to locating and rescuing individuals stranded in flood-affected areas. Drones and helicopters provided aerial surveillance, while community volunteers worked alongside professional teams to locate those in urgent need, distribute food, and assist in recovery efforts. Meanwhile, engineers restored access to clean water, and temporary sanitation measures were put in place to prevent waterborne illnesses.
The Recovery and Rehabilitation phase involved long-term rebuilding efforts, starting with the gradual restoration of power and communication lines, especially in healthcare and public service areas. Financial aid was pledged by both state and central governments to support affected families, along with loans and subsidies to rebuild homes and businesses. Environmental rehabilitation initiatives, including restoring mangrove forests and sand dunes, were also launched to reinforce natural defenses against future cyclones.
While the rescue operations were largely successful, the response efforts faced notable challenges. Blocked roads and damaged bridges limited access to remote villages, making logistics a significant hurdle. Resource shortages were another issue, as the high demand for food, medicine, and personnel strained available supplies. Communication and coordination gaps among agencies occasionally delayed response times, emphasizing the need for integrated communication systems. The crowded conditions in shelters raised health concerns as well, with a heightened risk of infectious diseases due to inadequate sanitation.
Reflecting on these operations, several recommendations for future preparedness stand out. Infrastructure improvements, including strengthening roads, bridges, and power grids, are essential to withstand extreme weather events. Expanding early-warning systems to rural areas and educating locals on emergency protocols can also enhance safety and reduce response times. A unified digital platform for real-time coordination among all stakeholders would improve efficiency in managing large-scale crises. Finally, investing in community engagement by training local volunteers in basic response procedures can reduce dependency on external aid and empower communities to handle initial disaster impacts.
The 2024 Odisha cyclone demonstrated the resilience of affected communities, the commitment of rescue teams, and the importance of proactive planning and interagency cooperation. While many lives were saved through these efforts, the event underscored key areas for improvement in disaster preparedness. Enhancing infrastructure resilience, fostering better coordination, and empowering local communities are crucial steps toward mitigating the impact of similar natural disasters in the future.
- Cyclone Overview
The cyclone, classified as “extremely severe,” made landfall on October 10, 2024, with wind speeds exceeding 180 km/h. Several coastal districts, including Ganjam, Puri, and Kendrapara, were among the worst affected, experiencing widespread flooding, structural collapse, and power outages. According to initial assessments, the cyclone displaced over 500,000 people, with thousands seeking refuge in emergency shelters.
- Rescue Operations
The rescue operations were divided into four main phases: Pre-Disaster Preparation, Immediate Response, Ongoing Rescue Efforts, and Recovery and Rehabilitation.
- Pre-Disaster Preparation
Government agencies collaborated with meteorological departments to predict the cyclone’s trajectory and severity. Preparedness included:
- Evacuations: Authorities evacuated over 700,000 individuals from high-risk areas.
- Early Warnings: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued timely warnings through SMS, radio, and social media platforms.
- Shelters and Stockpiling: Disaster response agencies set up over 1,000 temporary shelters with food, water, and medical supplies.
- Coordination: State and central government agencies, in partnership with NGOs, held drills to ensure smooth coordination.
- Immediate Response
As the cyclone made landfall, immediate rescue actions were taken:
Search and Rescue Teams: The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Indian Coast Guard, and Indian Navy were deployed, equipped with specialized tools for collapsed structures, boats for flood rescue, and helicopters for aerial evacuation.
Emergency Communication Systems: Due to power outages, satellite phones and wireless radios were used to coordinate efforts.
Health and Medical Support: Teams set up mobile clinics near affected areas, providing first aid, trauma care, and essential medications.
- Ongoing Rescue Efforts
After the cyclone passed, focus shifted to locating and rescuing stranded individuals:
Aerial Surveillance: Drones and helicopters were used to survey flood-hit areas to identify stranded populations.
Community Volunteers: Locals participated actively in identifying areas in need of urgent help, distributing food, and assisting professional teams.
Water and Sanitation: Engineers were deployed to restore drinking water, while temporary sanitation solutions were established to prevent waterborne diseases.
- Recovery and Rehabilitation
In the recovery phase, a long-term focus was placed on rebuilding efforts:
Restoration of Services: Electrical and communication lines were gradually restored, with priority given to healthcare and public utility areas.
Financial Support: Both the state and central governments pledged financial aid for affected families, along with loans and subsidies for rebuilding homes and businesses.
Environmental Rehabilitation: Efforts to restore mangrove forests and sand dunes were initiated to create natural barriers against future cyclones.
- Challenges Faced
Despite the successes, several challenges emerged:
Logistical Limitations: Blocked roads and damaged bridges hampered access to remote villages.
Resource Shortages: High demand for food, medicine, and personnel stretched resources thin.
Coordination Gaps: There were occasional delays in communication between agencies, highlighting the need for integrated systems.
Health Risks: The high population density in shelters raised concerns about infectious diseases and sanitation.
- Recommendations
To enhance future preparedness, the following steps are recommended:
Improved Infrastructure: Strengthening roads, bridges, and power grids to withstand extreme weather.
Early-Warning Outreach: Expanding the reach of warning systems to rural areas and training locals in emergency protocols.
Digital Coordination Platforms: Adopting a unified platform for real-time communication between all stakeholders.
Community Engagement: More extensive training for local volunteers can improve initial response times and reduce dependency on external aid.
- Conclusion
The 2024 Odisha cyclone underscored the resilience of communities, the dedication of rescue teams, and the importance of advanced planning and interagency cooperation. While the operations saved countless lives, this event provides valuable insights into improving future disaster response frameworks. Investing in resilient infrastructure, enhancing coordination, and empowering local communities remain critical steps to mitigate the impact of similar calamities in the future.
