Odisha on High Alert as Cyclone Threat Looms; Govt Identifies High-Risk Districts, Activates Preparedness Measures
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has intensified its disaster preparedness efforts amid the possibility of a cyclonic storm affecting the state in the coming days.
Authorities have identified several districts as highly vulnerable and directed senior officials to remain on alert to ensure a swift response to any emergency situation.
According to the state’s preparedness plan, five southern districts, Ganjam, Gajapati, Koraput, Rayagada, and Malkangiri, have been placed under the highest alert category due to their susceptibility to the expected weather system.
Additionally, Kandhamal and Kalahandi have been categorised under a secondary alert level, requiring enhanced monitoring and preparedness.
Officials said the weather system is expected to first impact parts of Andhra Pradesh before moving towards Odisha.
Southern districts are likely to experience heavy rainfall, with the system potentially advancing through western Odisha and adjacent regions.
The movement of the weather disturbance may also influence areas in northern Odisha later.
The government has also initiated precautionary measures to manage potential flood risks.
With forecasts indicating substantial rainfall in upper catchment areas, authorities are closely monitoring inflows into the Mahanadi river system and have begun necessary water management preparations.
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari stated that senior administrative officers, including Additional Chief Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, and Commissioners, have been instructed to remain stationed at their headquarters for real-time monitoring and coordination.
The state administration has urged district authorities to remain vigilant and ensure the readiness of emergency response mechanisms, relief infrastructure, and communication systems as Odisha braces for possible cyclonic impacts.
