Cyclone Arnab Threat Looms: Odisha Issues Urgent Advisory for Farmers and Fishermen
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has stepped up preparedness measures and issued a strict advisory for farmers, fishermen, and coastal residents as Cyclone Arnab intensifies over the Bay of Bengal and moves towards the Andhra Pradesh coast.
According to official forecasts, the cyclone is expected to make landfall near the Yanam-Kakinada region, though Odisha is likely to experience its peripheral impacts.
State authorities have placed several southern districts, including Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri, on alert amid forecasts of heavy to very heavy rainfall and gusty winds over the coming days.
A high-level review meeting chaired by the state administration assessed preparedness measures, with officials directing district collectors to remain vigilant and ensure timely response to any weather-related emergencies.
Four National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been deployed in vulnerable districts to strengthen disaster management efforts.
As a precaution, tourist entry to beaches in Ganjam district, including the popular Gopalpur and Sunapur beaches, has been prohibited until weather conditions improve.
Authorities have also advised people to avoid venturing into vulnerable areas during the period of adverse weather.
The government has issued special advisories for farmers, urging them to harvest mature paddy crops, safeguard stored grains, improve field drainage, and shift livestock to safer locations.
These measures are aimed at minimising potential losses from heavy rainfall and strong winds associated with the cyclone.
Fishermen have been strictly warned against venturing into the sea until further notice due to rough sea conditions and strong winds expected under the cyclone’s influence.
While the cyclone is not expected to make direct landfall in Odisha, officials have emphasised that its outer bands could trigger localised flooding, transportation disruptions, and damage to crops in southern districts.
The state administration has assured residents that all necessary preparedness and response mechanisms are in place.
