The Odisha government has ordered the immediate cancellation of leave for all Collectors, District Magistrates and officers posted in critical positions as a weather system over the Bay of Bengal intensifies and is expected to develop into a cyclonic storm.
In an official communication issued by the General Administration & Public Grievances Department, Special Secretary to Government, Ghasiram Murmu directed all Collectors and DMs to ensure that affected officers return to their respective headquarters at the earliest.
The order, issued with immediate effect, aims to maintain full administrative readiness to handle any exigencies arising from the approaching weather system.
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari has stated that the state is fully prepared, with a zero-casualty target. Emergency response teams including ODRAF and NDRF units have been placed on standby, fishermen have been advised against venturing into the sea, and several districts have already begun cancelling leaves of government staff while preparing cyclone shelters.
The latest order from the GA Department reinforces earlier instructions issued to various departments and district administrations, ensuring that key field officers remain available for coordination, evacuation if required, and rapid response.
Authorities continue to urge residents in vulnerable areas to stay alert, follow official advisories, and cooperate with local administrations as the state monitors the system’s progress.
