CM Majhi announces high-impact measures as cyclone ‘Dana’ approaches Odisha

Editor Editor
Oct 24, 2024 - 20:48
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CM Majhi announces high-impact measures as cyclone ‘Dana’ approaches Odisha

Bhubaneswar, Oct 24: Cyclone ‘Dana’ is projected to impact approximately 1,653 villages, nine towns, and 26 wards across 38 blocks in 11 districts, according to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. This information was shared following a review of cyclone preparedness with the Collectors of various districts, including Ganjam, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, and others, at Lok Seva Bhavan.

The Chief Minister announced that the government aims to evacuate a total of 362,000 individuals from vulnerable areas, with over 300,000 people already relocated to cyclone shelters by 11 AM today. Majhi emphasized the goal of achieving 100% evacuation within hours. In addition, 2,338 pregnant women have been transferred to hospitals and Maa Gruha facilities from at-risk locations.

To support these efforts, the government has activated 7,285 shelters, comprising 842 permanent and 6,443 temporary ones throughout the affected districts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is closely monitoring the situation and has assured the necessary support.

To ensure efficient evacuation, experienced IAS officers have been assigned to the affected areas, and nine state cabinet ministers are overseeing operations. In a discussion with District Magistrates, the Chief Minister stressed the importance of achieving full evacuation, maintaining zero casualties, ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply to hospitals, and providing adequate fuel and cooked meals at cyclone shelters.

Nineteen teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), 51 teams from the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), and 220 fire brigade units are on standby, alongside 157 police platoons, 92 medical teams, and 58 veterinary teams. The Chief Minister also urged residents to keep their pets loose for safety. The meeting included participation from Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, and other senior officials, with Collectors providing updates via video conference.