Zero Casualty Mission: Massive Evacuation Underway Ahead of Cyclone Arnab
The Odisha government has intensified its preparedness measures in Gajapati district ahead of Cyclone Arnab, with a strong focus on ensuring zero casualties.
Authorities have evacuated 10,200 people from 147 cyclone-vulnerable locations and shifted them to safer shelters as a precautionary measure.
A high-level review meeting was conducted by state officials along with district administration representatives to assess preparedness and monitor the implementation of safety protocols.
Senior officials have been stationed in vulnerable areas to oversee evacuation, relief, and emergency response operations.
Special arrangements have been made for pregnant women, who have been shifted to Maa Ghara maternity shelters to ensure uninterrupted access to medical care during the cyclone period.
District authorities have kept around 200 cyclone shelters ready with essential facilities, including food supplies, drinking water, electricity, medical support, sanitation services, and cooking arrangements for evacuees.
As part of preventive measures, educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centres, will remain closed for students during the designated precautionary period.
Standard operating procedures have also been activated to ensure effective coordination among government departments and emergency teams.
Officials reiterated the state government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and minimising damage through timely evacuations, continuous monitoring, and rapid response mechanisms.
Inspections of cyclone shelters are being conducted to ensure all necessary facilities remain available to evacuees.
The administration has urged residents in vulnerable areas to cooperate with authorities, follow official advisories, and avoid venturing into unsafe locations until weather conditions improve.
