Amid the possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall under the influence of a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal, educational institutions have been ordered to remain closed in several districts of Odisha.
The precautionary measure has been taken in view of the weather conditions and the possibility of heavy rainfall, flooding and landslides in vulnerable areas.
Schools, colleges and Anganwadi centres in Malkangiri will remain closed from September 23 to September 25.
In Khordha, Nabarangpur, Ganjam, Koraput, Rayagada and Bolangir, educational institutions will remain closed on September 23 and 24.
Meanwhile, schools and other educational institutions in Jagatsinghpur, Puri and Kalahandi will remain closed on September 23.
District-Wise Closure Details
The closures have been announced as a precautionary measure as the weather system over the Bay of Bengal is expected to bring intense rainfall to parts of Odisha.
| District | Closure Period |
|---|---|
| Malkangiri | September 23–25 |
| Khordha | September 23–24 |
| Nabarangpur | September 23–24 |
| Ganjam | September 23–24 |
| Koraput | September 23–24 |
| Rayagada | September 23–24 |
| Bolangir | September 23–24 |
| Jagatsinghpur | September 23 |
| Puri | September 23 |
| Kalahandi | September 23 |
The decision is aimed at reducing risks to students, teachers, staff and children at Anganwadi centres during the period of adverse weather.
Red Warning Issued For Koraput
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Red Warning for Koraput, covering the period from September 23 until the morning of September 25.
The district is expected to receive heavy to extremely heavy rainfall on September 23 and 24 under the influence of the weather system.
In response to the warning, the Koraput district administration has strengthened precautionary measures across the district.
Officials Directed To Remain At Headquarters
Government officials and employees in Koraput have been instructed not to leave the district headquarters without prior permission until September 25.
The administration has also warned that action may be taken against officials who violate the directive.
The measure is intended to ensure that government personnel remain available to respond to emergencies arising from heavy rainfall, flooding or landslides.
Hospitals Asked To Stock Emergency Medicines
Health facilities in vulnerable and low-lying locations have been instructed to maintain adequate stocks of emergency medicines and essential medical supplies.
The administration has also taken measures concerning pregnant women living in vulnerable areas.
Pregnant women in locations considered at risk have been advised to move to nearby Community Health Centres (CHCs) or Maa Gruhas so that medical assistance remains readily accessible during the period of heavy rainfall.
Flood And Landslide Preparedness Intensified
With the possibility of heavy rainfall, authorities have stepped up preparations to deal with potential flooding and landslides.
Water levels at four dams in the district are being closely monitored. Officials are expected to keep a continuous watch on reservoir levels and weather conditions as rainfall activity increases.
The administration has also planned to stock essential relief materials in vulnerable and low-lying areas.
These supplies include flattened rice (chuda), jaggery and medicines, which can be distributed if residents require emergency assistance.
Authorities On Alert As Rainfall Intensifies
The closure of educational institutions and the additional preparedness measures come as Odisha remains under the influence of a developing weather system over the Bay of Bengal.
With several districts facing the possibility of intense rainfall, authorities are focusing on early preparedness, particularly in areas vulnerable to flooding, landslides and disruption of normal transportation.
Residents in affected districts have been advised to follow instructions issued by the local administration and monitor official weather updates as the situation develops.
