States » EastPosted at: Oct 24 2026 10:28PM


Amid cyclone threat, Odisha mobilises disaster response resources

Bhubaneswar, Oct 24 (UNI) With a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal likely to intensify into a cyclonic storm by October 26 and approach the Andhra Pradesh coast around October 28, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday directed all departments to step up preparedness, expressing confidence that the state would minimise casualties.
“By the blessings of Lord Jagannath, we will achieve zero casualties this time as well,” Majhi said after reviewing the state’s preparedness at the Secretariat.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the well-marked low-pressure area over the east-central and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a depression on Saturday, a deep depression on October 25 and a cyclonic storm by the morning of October 26. The system is expected to move west-northwestwards and reach the west-central Bay of Bengal near the Andhra Pradesh coast around the morning of October 28.
Squally weather, with wind speeds of 40-50 kmph gusting to 60 kmph, is likely along and off the Odisha and Andhra Pradesh coasts from October 27, intensifying thereafter. Sea conditions are forecast to remain rough to very rough along the two states’ coasts on October 27 and 28. The IMD has advised fishermen against venturing into the sea during this period.
The five southern Odisha districts of Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri are likely to be among the worst affected, with heavy rainfall and winds reaching 80-90 kmph forecast under the system’s influence. Schools, colleges and Anganwadi centres in these districts will remain closed on October 28 and 29, while collectors in other districts will decide on closures based on the evolving situation.
The government has readied cyclone and flood shelters for evacuation, with special arrangements to shift pregnant women and patients to healthcare facilities. Around 60 Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) teams and 17 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been deployed, while 225 fire service teams have been placed on high alert.
Health centres in vulnerable areas have been directed to stock essential medicines, anti-snake venom and medical kits. Engineering departments have been asked to ensure swift restoration of essential services and clear roads blocked by fallen trees.
With the harvesting season approaching, officials have also been instructed to alert farmers to harvest and safely store their crops. Majhi called for coordinated action by all departments under a “whole-of-government” approach, citing Odisha’s experience in managing previous cyclones and floods, including Cyclones Dana and Montha.
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, the Chief Secretary and other senior officials attended the review meeting.
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Tags: #Amid cyclone threat# Odisha mobilises disaster response resources
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