Bhubaneswar: Chief Secretary Anu Garg on Monday said there is currently no possibility of a cyclone, but warned of heavy rainfall in southern Odisha under the influence of a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal.
Addressing the media after a high-level preparedness meeting at Lok Seva Bhawan, Garg said all concerned departments and district administrations had been directed to remain fully alert and take advance measures to deal with the weather situation.
According to the IMD, a well-marked low-pressure area over the east-central and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a depression within the next 24 hours and a deep depression in the subsequent 24 hours. It is expected to move west-northwestwards and reach near the north Andhra Pradesh-south Odisha coast by the morning of September 23.
Rainfall is likely to commence from September 22, particularly over around 11 districts in south Odisha, and continue till September 24. Winds of 45-55 kmph are likely along the coast, while wind speeds may reach around 70 kmph over the central Bay of Bengal.
Garg reviewed preparedness with Collectors and senior officials of Ganjam, Gajapati, Malkangiri and other vulnerable districts, directing them to keep a close watch on low-lying areas, drainage systems and river basins. She also ordered cancellation of leave of officials in likely affected districts and advised shifting expectant mothers to hospitals as a precautionary measure.
The Water Resources Department reviewed reservoir levels and water management. While Balimela and Kolab reservoirs have adequate capacity to accommodate incoming rainwater, Indravati is holding around 84 per cent of its capacity. The Chief Secretary directed officials to reduce its water level as required and closely monitor dams, embankments and other vulnerable locations.
The Special Relief Commissioner’s office said arrangements were being checked at flood and cyclone shelters, while ODRAF and NDRF teams are being deployed. The SRC control room will function round the clock.
Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea from Monday till September 24, while those already at sea have been asked to return to safe locations. The Chief Secretary directed all departments and district administrations to maintain close coordination in view of the evolving weather situation.
The meeting was attended by Director of Fire Services Sudhanshu Sarangi, Special Relief Commissioner Rajesh Prabhakar Patil, secretaries of various related departments, the Engineer-in-Chief of the Water Resources Department, and other senior officials of the concerned departments.
