21-Oct-2024 09:28 PM
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Bhubaneswar, Oct 21 (Reporter) Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday instructed officials to ensure zero casualties in light of Cyclone Dana, which is expected to hit the Odisha coast on October 24.
Majhi, who chaired a high-level meeting on the government's preparedness, also directed officials to identify all vulnerable areas and ensure the complete evacuation of people to safer locations.
The Chief Minister, citing the IMD report, stated that a low-pressure area has formed and will intensify into Cyclone Dana. The storm is projected to cross the landmass between Puri and Sagar Island on October 24, with wind speeds expected to reach 100-110 km/h.
After the review meeting, Majhi informed the press that all government departments, including ODRAF, NDRF, and fire service teams, were fully prepared to handle the cyclone situation. He urged people not to panic.
The Chief Minister also instructed officials to ensure that all necessary essential commodities are provided to cyclone shelters. He emphasized the importance of taking steps in advance to prevent disruptions in electricity, water, and telecommunications services.
Additionally, he asked officials to keep a close watch on black market activities to prevent the hoarding or price hikes of essential goods.
The Chief Minister advised the Agriculture Department to prepare a contingency plan in advance for any damages caused by the cyclone. He also directed the department to provide necessary inputs and assistance to farmers for the Rabi crop and to take steps to prevent the spread of misinformation and rumors during the cyclone.
The Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) office, OSDMA, Information and Public Relations Department, Revenue and Disaster Management Authority, Agriculture, and Home Departments were instructed to post regular updates on the cyclone through their social media handles.
The Chief Minister also emphasized the need to identify and remove weak billboards and signboards in urban areas to prevent any casualties from their collapse during the storm...////...