Chatrapur (Ganjam): The Ganjam district administration has stepped up preparedness as the deepression which is likely intensify into a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal is likely to move close to the district, with an Orange Warning currently in force and a Red Warning issued for September 23 and 24.
The district may receive heavy rainfall accompanied by winds gusting at 50-60 kmph during the period, prompting the administration to activate 24-hour control rooms at the district and block levels. Ganjam Collector V Keerthi Vasan said the administration was fully prepared to deal with any eventuality.
With the possibility of heavy rain and lightning, the Collector advised people to avoid unnecessary movement and urged farmers not to venture into agricultural fields for the next three to four days.
Vulnerable areas prone to flooding and waterlogging have been identified and cyclone and flood shelters kept ready across all blocks. People living near rivers and the sea will be shifted to safer locations if required. Special attention is being given to Digapahandi and Sanakhemundi, which witnessed flood situations following heavy rainfall last year.
The administration has also identified landslide-prone stretches in Kalinga Ghat and deployed fire services and ODRAF teams. A decision on regulating traffic through Kalinga Ghat will be taken in consultation with the Kandhamal district administration if the situation warrants. Tumba in Patrapur block and riverine areas of Chikiti have also been identified as vulnerable locations.
Officials have been directed to undertake field visits and closely monitor the situation. Health, electricity, police, ODRAF, fire services, National Highways and Rural Development departments have been kept on alert. The electricity department has been asked to undertake immediate restoration work in case of damage to poles or wires.
A decision on closure of schools and colleges will be taken depending on the rainfall situation. Government employees have been instructed not to leave their headquarters, while those on leave have been asked to return immediately. RIs and PEOs have also been directed to remain at their respective headquarters.
Meanwhile, the Baghalati and Ghodahada reservoirs still have around 50-60 per cent of their storage capacity available. The Collector said water would be released in a controlled manner, if necessary, with prior public announcements through miking.
