Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Fire Department all set to tackle any potential challenges posed by Cyclone Montha.
The Odisha government has deployed a total of 128 teams, comprising 24 Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) units, 5 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, and 99 Fire Services units, across eight districts to facilitate prompt rescue and relief operations.
According to Chief Fire Officer Ramesh Chandra Majhi, a total of 267 fire teams have been deployed across the state, with 123 teams in Berhampur RDC Circle and 144 teams in Cuttack RDC Circle. The teams are equipped with power and rubber boats, JCBs, tree cutting equipment, and other necessary gear.
The state government has taken proactive measures to address the impact of the cyclone by deploying nine teams of fire services personnel to the southern districts of Ganjam and Gajapati. These districts are expected to be among the worst affected, and the timely deployment aims to ensure prompt response and assistance. Of the nine teams deployed, eight have been stationed in Gajapati, while one team has been positioned in Ganjam. Each team comprises six trained firefighters, equipped to handle emergency situations and provide critical support during the cyclone and its aftermath.
On the other hand, the government has taken strict measures in preparation for the cyclone, directing District Collectors to complete evacuations from vulnerable zones by 5 PM today.
Additionally, authorities have been instructed to crack down on black marketing of essential commodities.
