Cyclone Arnab Nears Odisha: 1 Lakh Evacuated, 4,000 Pregnant Women Shifted to Safety
Bhubaneswar: As Cyclone Arnab advances towards the Odisha coast, the state government has launched an extensive preparedness operation, evacuating nearly one lakh residents from vulnerable coastal and low-lying areas and relocating more than 4,000 pregnant women to safer locations and healthcare facilities.
District administrations across the potentially affected regions have intensified evacuation drives, while emergency shelters have been activated to house residents displaced by the impending storm.
The proactive measures aim to minimise casualties and ensure the safety of vulnerable populations ahead of the cyclone’s expected impact.
Special attention has been given to expectant mothers, senior citizens, children, and persons with disabilities.
Health officials have strengthened medical preparedness, ensuring adequate staffing, emergency medicines, ambulances, and backup power arrangements at designated healthcare centres.
Disaster response agencies, including fire services, ODRAF teams, and other emergency personnel, have been deployed strategically in high-risk districts.
Authorities are also monitoring river systems, embankments, and flood-prone areas in anticipation of heavy rainfall and strong winds associated with the cyclone.
The state government has urged residents to follow official advisories, avoid venturing into the sea, and cooperate with evacuation efforts.
Fishermen have been advised not to sail into deep waters until weather conditions improve.
Senior officials continue to review the preparedness measures round the clock, with control rooms functioning at the state and district levels to coordinate emergency response and rescue operations.
As Cyclone Arnab moves closer, Odisha remains on high alert, with authorities emphasising a zero-casualty approach through timely evacuations, effective communication, and coordinated disaster management efforts.
