The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) has postponed the preliminary test for the Odisha civil service examination, which was originally scheduled for October 27, 2023. The move comes as Cyclone Dana approaches the Odisha coast, with landfall expected on October 25. A new exam date will be announced after seven days, with candidates advised to monitor the OPSC website for updates.
As a safety measure, Odisha’s Nandankanan Zoo and State Botanical Garden will remain closed on October 24 and 25. This follows the earlier closure of Similipal Tiger Reserve and Bhitarkanika National Park for tourists from October 23 to 25.
State Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Minister, Gokulananda Mallik, has appealed to the public to shelter stray animals during the cyclone. He emphasized that injured animals can be reported via the helpline number 1962.
Cyclone Dana is expected to make landfall between Bhitarkanika National Park and Dhamra port, bringing wind speeds of up to 120 kmph. In preparation, the Odisha government is evacuating over 10 lakh people from 14 districts, bracing for heavy rainfall, tidal surges, and high winds. Around 6,000 relief camps have been set up to provide food, shelter, and medical aid.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings of extremely heavy rainfall, especially in coastal and low-lying areas, urging residents to remain alert as rescue teams have already been deployed.