In view of the impending Cyclone Arnab and the forecast of heavy rain, strong winds and waterlogging, Odisha Police has placed all seven districts of Central Range on high alert.
These are Kataka Rural, Jagatsinghpur, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Khordha, Nayagarh and Puri. Dr. Satyajit Naik, Inspector General of Police, Central Range, Kataka, reviewed the state of preparedness and directed all Superintendents of Police to take every preventive measure in close coordination with the District Administration, ODRAF, Fire Services, OSDMA and other agencies. He stressed that the priority is the protection of life and property and that there must be no lapse in readiness.
Police personnel have been deployed in vulnerable, low-lying, flood-prone and coastal areas so that help can reach people quickly. Four ODRAF teams have been deployed in Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kataka and Khordha districts. Police are assisting the administration in shifting people from vulnerable areas to cyclone shelters, with special attention to the elderly, children, women, pregnant women and persons with disabilities.
To keep roads open, police will regulate traffic, clear waterlogged roads and fallen trees at the earliest, and ensure free passage for ambulances, fire tenders, relief vehicles and other emergency services. In evacuated areas, visible policing, patrolling and night vigil will be maintained to prevent theft and looting. District Police Control Rooms are on 24×7 alert to receive distress calls and respond immediately. Police are also in close liaison with Fire Services, Health, Electricity, Works (PWD) and other departments for quick restoration of essential services after the cyclone passes.
A special coastal alert is in force in Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara and Puri. Police will focus on the safety of pilgrims and tourists and on keeping people away from beaches and the sea.
Odisha Police appeals to the public to remain calm and not panic, follow only official bulletins and advisories, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay away from flooded roads, waterlogged areas, fallen trees, electric poles and loose wires. Citizens are requested to move to cyclone shelters promptly when advised, and not to spread or forward rumours or unverified messages on social media. Strict action will be taken against those spreading false information.
In case of any emergency, people may contact the nearest Police Station, the District Police Control Room, or dial 112.
Odisha Police is committed to the safety and security of the citizens of Central Range and stands with the people at this hour.
