Bhubaneswar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Berhampur on September 27 may be cancelled or shifted to Jharsuguda due to predicted heavy rainfall in coastal areas.
Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari hinted at changing the event venue, citing concerns over the low-pressure system expected to bring widespread heavy rainfall to the state.
“The Prime Minister’s programmes are scheduled to be held on September 27 in Berhampur. But heavy rain and storms are expected due to a low-pressure system on September 25. As Berhampur is a coastal area, it may receive maximum impact. So we have mulled changing the programme venue. We have located a place in Jharsuguda. The Collector and SP have visited the place. We will send a report to the office of the Prime Minister today. The PMO will take a call on that and inform us accordingly, following which we will start the process in that direction,” Pujari informed.
The Prime Minister was slated to attend the national-level “Seva Parv” programme in Berhampur, followed by the inauguration and laying of foundation stones for multiple development projects across Odisha. However, with the weather system posing a challenge, authorities are exploring alternative options.
The Amulipali ground in Jharsuguda has been identified as a possible alternative venue. The Collector and Superintendent of Police have visited the site, and a report will be sent to the Prime Minister’s Office for a final decision.
No official confirmation has been received from the government regarding the cancellation or change of venue
The administration has begun removing the tent erected in Rangeilunda, Berhampur, amid uncertainty over the event. The Director General of Police had reviewed preparations yesterday, while the Chief Secretary assessed the situation at Lok Seva Bhavan.
