Odisha government on Thursday said that a slew of measures is already up for immediate implementation by various departments on a priority basis in view of the development of a cyclonic storm in Bay of Bengal.
State Special Relief Commissioner Pradeep Jena has asked all the concerned departments of the government machinery to ensure readiness with full preparedness of manpower & other resources for any exigency arising out of the storm that is likely to intensify into a cyclone from a low pressure between May 22 and May 25 before advancing towards Odisha-Bengal coast in northwest direction by May 26.
Jena informed mediapersons that still now the exact track and intensity of the cyclone is not clear as different weather forecasting models are suggesting different pictures.
Since IMD has been continuously predicting the details of cyclones with much precision, so it is requested not to create any confusion regarding the direction of movement and landfall of this storm as it is creating panic and consequently leading to various repercussions like hoarding of essential commodities, food items and back marketing.
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As per the direction of the Chief Minister, preparations are in full swing for the cyclone at the State and the district level. A draft plan has been made to mobilise emergency rescue and disaster management troops like Fire, ODRAF and NDRF at strategic points but the final execution will be done as soon as we get clear information on the cyclone.
Directions have been issued to keep flood and cyclone shelters in readiness. Panchayati Raj and Water Resources department has been asked to make necessary preparations to ensure an unhindered drinking water supply and plan to pre-position water tankers wherever necessary to help people during the aftermath of the cyclone.
The Energy Department has been notified to keep manpower resources on alert and equipment on standby. PW department has been entrusted to work out a detailed plan for clearing of roads, tree cutting and other associated restoration works.
The SRC has asked the Animal and Fisheries department to create awareness in coastal belts to prevent entry of fishermen into the sea during the period mentioned by the India Meteorological Department. Similarly, efforts will also be taken to ensure safe return of fishermen still in deep sea.