The high-velocity cyclone Phailin that hit Odisha about a week ago is estimated to have destroyed around 26 lakh trees in the state.

The enumeration process of damaged trees is still in progress and it is taking time as many forest areas have become inaccessible after the cyclone. With massive damage to forest areas, experts have suggested that the government should go for wind-resistant
local varieties such as Mango, Neem and Banyan instead of planting fast-growing trees.

State Forest Minister Bijayshree Routray has said, the cyclone has caused severe damage to the green cover of the state. The uprooted trees included species such as Eucalyptus, Gulmohar, Debdaru, Radhachura, Banyan, Peepal, Neem and several fruit-bearing trees such as Jackfruit, Mango, Banana, Coconut and Cashew trees among others.