As Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Arnab continues to impact the region, the Odisha government has successfully evacuated approximately one lakh people to safer locations, stepping up precautionary measures across vulnerable districts.
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari announced on Wednesday that state authorities are operating on a high-alert footing to ensure zero casualties.
Targeted Evacuations and Healthcare Prioritization
Highlighting specialized administrative efforts, Minister Pujari stated that 4,072 pregnant women had been identified for relocation across vulnerable zones. Of these, around 2,000 have already been safely shifted to healthcare facilities and cyclone shelters, with several successful child deliveries already reported.
In tandem with land-based evacuations, maritime authorities secured the coastline:
- 19,143 Total Fishing Boats brought safely back to shore.
- 11,955 Marine Fishing Boats docked securely.
- 7,188 Inland Fishing Boats operating in Chilika Lake brought ashore.
Cabinet Oversight and Zero-Casualty Goal
Minister Pujari confirmed that he held late-night review discussions with district collectors across southern Odisha on Tuesday. Cabinet ministers have been dispatched directly to potentially affected zones to oversee relief operations, inspect shelter facilities, and coordinate ground-level response teams.
While the adverse weather conditions and heavy rainfall are expected to persist through October 30, the minister confirmed that no casualties or major damages have been reported so far.
Invoking the blessings of Lord Jagannath, Pujari reiterated the state’s unwavering commitment to safety, emphasizing that every possible measure is being deployed to safeguard human lives and property.
