With a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal projected to intensify into a cyclonic storm, the Odisha government has kicked its disaster preparedness machinery into high gear.
On Saturday, a high-level review meeting was convened at Krushi Bhavan under the chairmanship of Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment, Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo.
The crucial meeting saw participation from 25 district agriculture officers via video conferencing. Discussions centred heavily on safeguarding standing crops from potential cyclone damage and issuing timely advisories to farmers across vulnerable regions.
Power Sector and Infrastructure Readiness
Addressing the media regarding Southern Odisha’s preparedness, Deputy Chief Minister Singh Deo emphasised that the state is fully equipped to handle any eventuality. Special focus has been placed on maintaining robust power distribution networks in coordination with Tata Power-managed distribution companies (including TPSODL).
Key highlights of the power sector preparedness include:
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Advance Stocking: Essential equipment such as transformers, electric poles, and conductors have been pre-positioned in high-risk districts.
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Manpower & Machinery: Over 8,000 personnel and dedicated vehicles have been deployed and kept on standby.
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Rapid Restoration: The administration has formulated a target to restore power supply within 48 hours in the event of any grid damage.
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Critical Infrastructure: Preventive maintenance has been successfully completed across all primary and distribution substations. Hospitals, water supply installations, and cyclone shelters will receive uninterrupted power.
IMD Forecast & Advisory for Farmers
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the depression over the east-central and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal is expected to strengthen into a deep depression and subsequently evolve into a cyclonic storm by October 26. Moving west-northwestwards, it is likely to approach the coasts of northern Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha by the morning of October 28. While private meteorologists predict it may cross the coast as a severe cyclonic storm, the IMD continues to monitor its precise trajectory.
In light of these developments, the Agriculture Department has urged farmers to stay alert and adopt necessary crop management practices to minimise agricultural losses.
Farmers can reach out for immediate crop-related guidance and support through the Krushak Samrudhi Helpline (155333). The state government continues to coordinate closely with all departments to ensure public safety, prompt disaster response, and minimal disruption to the agricultural sector.
