President Droupadi Murmu’s scheduled visit to Rairangpur in the Mayurbhanj district has been postponed for the second time due to the ongoing post-cyclone and flood situation in Odisha.
Amid the challenging weather conditions, President Murmu held a telephone conversation with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to review the impact of the recent cyclone (noted locally as Cyclone Arnab) and the subsequent flooding. The President inquired in detail about the current ground situation, the welfare of displaced citizens, and the overall safety of the affected population.
Chief Minister Majhi briefed the President on the widespread impact across the affected districts and outlined the war-footing rescue, relief, and restoration operations being carried out by the state government. Expressing his gratitude following the discussion, the Chief Minister stated that the President’s compassion and support have significantly bolstered the state government’s resolve to ensure the safety and well-being of every Odia. He assured her that all necessary steps are being taken to restore normalcy in the affected regions.
Meanwhile, the local administration confirmed the cancellation of the President’s upcoming tour. Rairangpur Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Ajit Kumar stated that the decision was taken keeping in mind the safety and security protocols amidst continuous heavy rainfall.
Initially, the President was scheduled to visit Rairangpur on October 28 for a two-day tour, which was cancelled as the cyclone approached. The trip was subsequently rescheduled as a three-day visit from November 3 to November 5. According to the revised itinerary, the President was to arrive at Kalaikunda in West Bengal via a special Indian Air Force flight on November 3, followed by a road journey to Rairangpur under tight security.
During her three-day stay, President Murmu was slated to attend a series of local programs. Her planned itinerary included visits to the Maa Kichakeswari Temple in Bahalda, the Laxmi Mandap in Mahuldiha, and her residence in Rairangpur. She was also scheduled to visit the Rairangpur Sub-divisional Hospital, the Kacheri ground, and the local Holiday Home. On November 5, her agenda featured stops at the Rairangpur Sports Complex, Bikash Nagar, the Multi-Skill Development Centre at Gorumahisani Iron College, and the Town Hall.
Mayurbhanj MP Naba Charan Majhi informed the press that the revised dates for the President’s visit to her home district will be finalized and announced at a later time once the weather and local conditions stabilize.
