As severe weather threatens parts of the state, the Governor of Odisha, Braj Mohan Ram, emphasised the absolute necessity of ensuring zero casualties and minimising agricultural losses in light of the potential threat posed by Cyclone Arnab.
Reviewing the state’s preparedness on Wednesday at Lok Seva Bhawan during a high-level briefing with Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Shri Rajesh Prabhakar Patil, the Governor called for strict vigilance and unyielding inter-departmental coordination.
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│ GOVERNOR'S KEY DIRECTIVES FOR ARNAB │
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[ 1. Zero Casualties ] [ 2. Crop & Property ] [ 3. Continuous Coordination ]
Protect human lives Minimize damage through Keep state agencies alert
via early evacuations proactive harvesting and fully integrated
Proactive Evacuations & Heavy Rainfall Alert
While Cyclone Arnab has not directly struck the Odisha coastline, its wide atmospheric circulation has triggered torrential rains across several southern districts, including Gajapati, Malkangiri, and Rayagada.
In response, the state administration moved swiftly to protect vulnerable populations:
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Preemptive Sheltering: Residents in high-risk zones have been safely evacuated to nearby Multipurpose Cyclone Shelters.
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Rapid Deployment: Search, rescue, and relief teams (ODRAF, NDRF, and Fire Services) are fully deployed and stationed on standby.
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High-Level Oversight: Chief Minister and the Minister for Revenue & Disaster Management are closely monitoring the evolving situation to guarantee immediate execution of emergency measures.
A Global Benchmark in Disaster Resilience
During the review, SRC Rajesh Prabhakar Patil briefed the Governor on Odisha’s historical prowess in disaster mitigation—a track record recognised globally by international bodies like the United Nations and the World Bank.
“Odisha’s disaster response model has consistently proven that early planning saves lives. Maintaining maximum priority on life safety and crop protection remains our paramount target.”
Expressing satisfaction with the ongoing response measures, Governor Braj Mohan Ram reiterated that saving lives, protecting farmers’ livelihoods, and safeguarding property must remain the non-negotiable targets of the administration throughout the storm’s presence.
