Bhubaneswar: Odisha has stepped up its preparedness to deal with cyclonic storm ‘Arnab’, which is approaching the Andhra Pradesh–Odisha coast and is forecast to make landfall on Wednesday. Fire services personnel, disaster response teams and district administrations have been placed on high alert amid forecasts of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in several southern districts.
The weather system over the Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify and move towards the north Andhra Pradesh and adjoining south Odisha coasts around October 28, according to meteorological forecasts. The system’s exact track, intensity and possible landfall location remain uncertain. Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri are among the districts facing the threat of heavy rainfall.
The Odisha Fire Services Department has intensified its preparations, with the Bhanjanagar unit forming two teams and keeping rescue equipment ready. Personnel are being prepared to deal with flooding, fallen trees, road blockages and landslides. Boats will be deployed for rescue operations in flooded areas, while power saws and cutters will be used to clear roads obstructed by fallen trees. Spreaders will help extricate people trapped under debris.
In Ganjam district, the administration has readied 110 permanent cyclone shelters and more than 1,000 temporary shelters, with a combined capacity to accommodate around 1.5 lakh people. Nine Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) teams and two National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been kept ready for emergency operations.
Government officials have been directed to remain at their headquarters, and leave has been cancelled as the administration intensifies its vigilance. Authorities are coordinating preparations to ensure the timely evacuation of people from vulnerable areas and the uninterrupted supply of essential services.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has reviewed the state’s preparedness and directed officials to prioritise public safety and disaster response. Schools, colleges and Anganwadi centres in Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri are scheduled to remain closed on October 28 and 29.
Authorities have been asked to shift residents of vulnerable coastal and low-lying areas to safer locations whenever necessary. Health facilities are preparing to meet emergency requirements, while fishermen have been advised against venturing into the sea.
Farmers have also been urged to protect standing crops and safely store harvested produce. Residents have been advised to follow official weather bulletins and comply with evacuation instructions as the situation develops.
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