As a deep depression and potential cyclone brewing over the Bay of Bengal threaten the eastern coastline, the Odisha Fire and Emergency Services Department has stepped up its disaster preparedness to ensure maximum safety and swift response.
To counter any emergency situations arising from the impending severe weather, the department has placed 205 specialised rescue teams on high alert across vulnerable regions of the state. These teams will play a crucial, active role in executing rapid rescue operations, clearing roadblocks, and managing relief distributions.
Fully Equipped for Swift Action
The Fire Services wing is fully stocked with essential life-saving and disaster-response equipment, including:
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Advanced rescue boats and life jackets
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Tree-cutting and debris-clearance tools
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Specialised emergency communication gear
To maintain seamless coordination, a 24/7 control room has been activated to monitor developments continuously. The department is working hand-in-hand with district administrations and other major disaster management agencies, such as the NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) and ODRAF (Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force), to ensure unified ground action.
Safety is Our Top Priority: Fire DG
Highlighting the state’s readiness, Fire Services Director General (DG) Sudhanshu Sarangi stated that all deployed units are on high alert and fully prepared to mobilise at a moment’s notice.
“All teams are primed for immediate deployment. Whether it is clearing fallen trees, restoring blocked roads, managing sudden flooding, or handling other critical emergencies, swift action will be taken,” DG Sarangi emphasized.
Strict adherence to state government directives ensures that public safety remains the utmost priority, with all administrative measures firmly in place to weather the approaching storm.
