Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Fire and Emergency Services has sounded a statewide high alert in view of the forecast of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall triggered by an active low-pressure system.
Inspector General Umashankar Dash of the Home Guards and Fire Services reviewed the state’s preparedness for the upcoming heavy rainfall under the guidance of Director General Dr Sudhanshu Sarangi. Dash said all fire stations have been put on 24-hour alert, while special rescue teams have been deployed in the Cuttack, Berhampur, and Sambalpur ranges.
The Department has also urged people to avoid waterlogged areas and immediately dial 112 in case of any distress. The Fire Services department has made elaborate arrangements for rescue and relief operations. As many as 324 motorized inflatable rubber boats have been deployed across the state, with 159 boats in the central region, 84 in the southern region, and 81 in the northern region.
Additionally, 3,143 life jackets, 2,712 life saving boys, 145 underwater breathing sets, and 161 surface breathing sets have been kept ready.
To tackle waterlogging, 952 pumps have been deployed for draining water from submerged roads and low-lying areas. The department has also arranged 628 tower lights and 173 search lights for night rescue operations. Close coordination has been established with the district administration to ensure prompt assistance during emergencies.
With the IMD predicting continued intense rainfall over the next few days, the Fire and Emergency Services remains on full alert to handle any flood-related incidents across the state.
