Cyclone Arnab: Odisha Puts Power Grid on High Alert, Deputy CM Reviews Preparedness
Bhubaneswar: As Odisha prepares for the possible impact of Cyclone Arnab, Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo on Monday chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the state’s power infrastructure preparedness and emergency response strategy.
The meeting focused on ensuring uninterrupted coordination among power utilities and minimising disruptions during and after the cyclone.
Emphasising the state government’s commitment to public safety, the Deputy CM reiterated the objective of achieving zero casualties and facilitating rapid restoration of essential services.
To strengthen disaster response mechanisms, the Odisha power sector has activated a multi-tier emergency management framework.
OPTCL has operationalised a 24×7 Central Control Room at STAMC Chandaka, supported by zonal monitoring facilities and multiple field control centres across vulnerable districts.
Authorities have also pre-positioned emergency restoration materials, including tower sets, conductors, and other critical equipment, to enable speedy repair of damaged transmission infrastructure in the event of severe weather impacts.
As part of the preparedness measures, Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo will be stationed in Koraput to directly monitor the evolving situation and coordinate emergency response efforts.
Officials stated that power restoration efforts, once weather conditions permit, will prioritise hospitals, cyclone shelters, schools, and other critical public facilities.
Citizens will also receive restoration updates through automated SMS alerts.
Meanwhile, TPSODL has established a Central Emergency Control Centre in Berhampur and urged consumers to use dedicated helpline numbers during emergencies.
Senior officials, including Vishal Kumar Dev, Additional Chief Secretary of the Energy Department, participated in the review meeting and reaffirmed the government’s readiness to respond swiftly to any cyclone-related challenges.
