Bhubaneswar: Opposition parties Friday slammed BJP government in Odisha for alleged failure to prepare for Cyclone Arnab despite IMD forecast of heavy rain and flooding.
At press meet in Bhubaneswar, Opposition Chief Whip Pramila Mallik said preventive measures could have avoided large-scale damage in several districts.
“BJP government failed to make adequate preparation to tackle cyclone and flood in Ganjam and Gajapati despite advance IMD warning. Instead of addressing sufferings, government is busy with publicity,” Mallik alleged.
She said government should have prioritised reservoir management, drainage and repair of vulnerable embankments. “Several embankments in Ganjam and Gajapati were already damaged due to illegal sand mining, which worsened flood situation,” she claimed.
“When thousands are marooned, government pressed one helicopter and evacuated six-seven people. This is publicity stunt,” she said. BJD’s Pratap Jena said relief has not reached many affected families and demanded immediate rescue, cooked food, drinking water and essential commodities without discrimination. “If neglect continues, BJD will intensify democratic agitation,” he warned.
Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena rejected allegations, saying administration is extending all possible help despite odds and it is not acceptable to criticise officials working round the clock.
OPCC demanded immediate relief, damage assessment, compensation and accountability for Ganjam floods. CPI state council demanded flood be declared national disaster with special central assistance.
Earlier, Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik called Ganjam Collector V Keerthi Vasan to enquire about flood situation in Hinjili, Sheragada and other parts of district. He deputed BJD delegation led by Mallik to Ganjam to meet affected people. Team will submit detailed report to Patnaik. CPI(M) said delegation led by Ali Kishore Patnaik will visit worst-hit areas of Ganjam and Gajapati.
Cyclone Arnab triggered heavy destruction Thursday, with Ganjam worst affected, followed by Gajapati and Kandhamal.
