Cyclone Arnab Threat: Ganjam Shuts Anganwadi Centres for Three Days, Safety Measures Intensified

According to official sources, the move follows weather alerts issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), which has placed several districts of southern Odisha under orange and red warnings due to the cyclone’s likely impact.

While Anganwadi services at physical centres will remain suspended during this period, Anganwadi workers and helpers have been directed to remain present in their respective areas and assist local authorities whenever required.

The administration has also ensured that beneficiaries continue to receive essential nutritional support.

Dry rations and Take-Home Rations (THR) will be distributed to children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers, preventing any disruption in welfare services despite the temporary closure.

Cyclone Arnab, developing over the Bay of Bengal, is expected to intensify further before making landfall near the Andhra Pradesh-Yanam coast.

The system is likely to bring widespread rainfall, gusty winds, and adverse weather conditions across southern Odisha districts, including Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri.

Meanwhile, the Odisha Government has strengthened disaster preparedness measures, including activation of control rooms, readiness of cyclone shelters, and deployment of ODRAF and NDRF teams in vulnerable areas.

Educational institutions and Anganwadi centres in the affected districts have also been ordered to remain closed during the cyclone period.

Authorities have urged residents to remain alert, follow official advisories, and avoid venturing into vulnerable areas as the cyclone approaches the eastern coast.