Cyclone Arnab: Odisha Targets 'Zero Casualties' as Storm Nears
Odisha Minister Suresh Pujari reviews readiness as Cyclone Arnab moves toward Malkangiri. 313 response teams and 2,000+ shelters are on standby.
With Cyclone Arnab readiness now at the forefront of the state's agenda, Odisha has shifted into high gear to ensure the safety of its citizens. Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari has declared that the government's primary motto is to achieve "zero casualties" as the cyclonic system begins its movement toward the state.
Tracking the Storm: From Kakinada to Malkangiri
The landfall process for Cyclone Arnab commenced in the early hours of Wednesday, hitting near Kakinada on the Andhra Pradesh coast around 1:30 am. According to Minister Pujari, the system was reported as stationary for a period after making landfall in the neighboring state.
However, the trajectory indicates that the storm will now move in a north and northwest direction, eventually reaching Odisha's Malkangiri district. While it is expected to take a few hours to enter Odisha, the state administration has already mobilized a massive response framework to handle any eventuality.
Massive Deployment of Rescue Forces
To ensure a swift and effective response, the Odisha government has deployed a total of 313 response teams across various strategic locations. The breakdown of the force includes:
- 60 ODRAF teams (Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force)
- 9 NDRF teams (National Disaster Response Force)
- 244 Fire and Emergency Services teams
In addition to the manpower, the state has prepared 2,037 shelters to provide immediate refuge for individuals evacuated from high-risk zones.
Preventive Measures and Public Safety
The administration has not left safety to chance, implementing several preemptive strikes to protect the most vulnerable populations. Minister Pujari highlighted that pregnant women identified as high-risk have already been shifted to nearby healthcare facilities to ensure medical support is readily available.
Furthermore, the maritime sector has been alerted, and all fishing vessels have been ordered back to shore to avoid the dangers of the turbulent sea.
Managing Landslides and Terrain Risks
Beyond the coastal threats, the government is focusing on hilly and vulnerable terrains where the storm could trigger landslides. Precautionary measures have been put in place, and certain roads have been blocked in anticipation of potential debris or soil slips to prevent accidents.
"Once it starts moving towards Odisha, our systems will be ready for the cyclonic storm, and we will take all adequate measures to safeguard the life and property of the people," stated Minister Suresh Pujari.
As of the latest review, the Minister confirmed that there have been no reported casualties or major public inconveniences, reinforcing the state's commitment to maintaining a zero-casualty record throughout the crisis.