Odisha has intensified its disaster preparedness as a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal is expected to trigger heavy to very heavy rainfall across several parts of the state.
Following directions from the Chief Secretary, the state administration has reviewed preparedness measures with concerned departments and district administrations, particularly in southern Odisha, where the weather system is expected to have a significant impact.
Authorities have identified vulnerable and sensitive locations and strengthened arrangements to respond to possible flooding, waterlogging and landslides.
Cyclone And Flood Shelters Readied
Cyclone and flood shelters in vulnerable districts have been prepared to accommodate people if evacuation becomes necessary.
Officials have also stocked essential relief materials and emergency equipment in areas considered vulnerable to heavy rainfall.
Health facilities and emergency response services have been placed on alert to deal with any weather-related emergencies.
Authorities are maintaining continuous surveillance of rivers, reservoirs and dams, while special attention is being given to areas prone to landslides.
33 ODRAF Teams Deployed Across State
The Odisha government has deployed 33 teams of the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) to strengthen emergency response capabilities.
Of the total teams, 24 have been deployed in sensitive districts, while another nine teams have been kept in reserve at Chhatrapur for rapid deployment if required.
The district-wise deployment includes:
- Ganjam – 6 teams
- Koraput – 6 teams
- Gajapati – 3 teams
- Malkangiri – 3 teams
- Rayagada – 3 teams
- Kalahandi – 2 teams
- Bolangir – 1 team
- Reserve at Chhatrapur – 9 teams
The deployment is aimed at ensuring that trained personnel can reach affected locations quickly in the event of flooding, landslides, fallen trees or other emergencies.
Red Warning For Several Districts
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red warnings for several districts as the deep depression continues to influence weather conditions over Odisha.
Koraput, Gajapati and Ganjam are under a red warning for very heavy rainfall on Wednesday and Thursday.
For September 24 and 25, red alerts have also been issued for Kalahandi, Nabarangpur, Koraput and Malkangiri.
The warnings indicate the possibility of intense rainfall in these areas, increasing the risk of localised flooding, waterlogging and landslides.
Rivers, Reservoirs And Dams Under Watch
The Water Resources Department is closely monitoring rainfall patterns, water inflows, river levels and the condition of dams and reservoirs.
Officials are maintaining surveillance of water levels so that necessary action can be taken if levels rise rapidly following intense rainfall.
People living near rivers, streams and other water channels have been advised to exercise caution and avoid entering or crossing flowing water.
Fishermen Advised To Stay Away From Sea
In view of the expected rough sea conditions, fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea until September 24.
The advisory has been issued as a precautionary measure because of the strengthening weather system over the Bay of Bengal.
Coastal communities have been asked to follow instructions issued by the local administration and weather authorities.
Public Advised To Remain Alert
Residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to avoid waterlogged and low-lying locations, particularly during periods of intense rainfall.
People living near rivers and streams have also been urged to remain cautious, while residents in landslide-prone areas have been advised to follow evacuation or safety instructions issued by local authorities.
The administration has also asked people to rely only on official government advisories and IMD updates and avoid spreading or relying on unverified information.
With emergency teams, shelters, essential supplies and response agencies placed on standby, Odisha’s disaster management machinery remains on heightened alert as the deep depression approaches the coast.
