cyclone update: Odisha dispatches 20 ODRAF teams ahead of cyclone Dana; preparations in full swing

Reporterspen

cyclone update: Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), Oct 22: The Odisha government has deployed 20 Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) teams to districts expected to be affected by the impending Cyclone Dana. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted strong winds along with heavy to very heavy rainfall across coastal and adjacent districts starting October 23.

According to a communiqué from the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC), ODRAF teams have been instructed to report to District Emergency Offices by October 22 for search and rescue (SAR) operations, including evacuation, relief, and flood response. The Additional SRC has also requested 10 additional NDRF teams from outside Odisha to assist in rescue efforts.

Currently, 14 NDRF teams are stationed in West Bengal, with 11 in Odisha on standby. The government has prepared 800 cyclone shelters and 500 temporary shelters, including schools and colleges, to house evacuees. Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari stated that 250 multipurpose cyclone shelters have been equipped with food, water, and medical supplies.

Special care is being taken for vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, children, and the elderly, with women police deployed at the shelters. Pujari assured that district collectors are coordinating preparedness efforts, with sufficient rations, polythene sheets, and essential items in stock.

“A red alert has been issued at all ports, and fishermen have returned safely. Seven trawlers were being monitored, and their return is in progress. The government is working in mission mode to ensure zero casualties,” Pujari said.


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