Sat Nov 02 11:42:46 UTC 2024: ## Odisha’s Cyclone Dana Brings 1,600 Newborns, Showcase of State’s Disaster Preparedness

**Kendrapara, Odisha:** Amidst the fury of Cyclone Dana, which made landfall on October 25, Odisha witnessed an extraordinary display of resilience and preparedness, delivering 1,600 babies safely in public health centers and hospitals across the state.

The state’s disaster management system, honed over two decades since the devastating 1999 super cyclone, came into action with a meticulous plan to protect vulnerable groups, particularly pregnant women. With the help of ASHA workers, anganwadi staff, and panchayati raj institutions, over 4,872 pregnant women were transferred to hospitals or Maa Gruhas (waiting facilities for pregnant women) before the cyclone’s arrival.

The dedication of medical professionals, particularly those working in primary health centers (PHCs) like Dr. Upasana Biswal, ensured safe deliveries even amidst the storm. The cyclone’s impact on the PHCs, with twisted trees and disrupted power, only heightened the sense of achievement in ensuring the health of both mothers and newborns.

This successful operation highlights the state’s commitment to maternal safety and the progress made in disaster preparedness since the 1999 super cyclone, which tragically claimed thousands of lives. The system now relies on extensive digital data banks on pregnancy, proactive outreach to vulnerable communities, and well-equipped government hospitals with backup power and readily available ambulances.

While the state’s disaster management system is hailed as a model for other regions, there is still room for improvement, particularly in providing better amenities for pregnant women in cyclone shelters.

Despite the challenges posed by Cyclone Dana, Odisha emerged with a resounding success story: 2,865 successful deliveries, including 18 sets of twins, without a single maternal death. The state’s resilience, dedication to maternal safety, and community-based preparedness served as a beacon of hope during this natural disaster.

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