Bhubaneswar, 28 October (H.S.): Senior government and police officials on Wednesday reviewed cyclone preparedness, evacuation arrangements and shelter facilities at Jatadhari Muhana in Odisha’s Jagatsinghpur district, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to its zero-casualty mission amid the approaching cyclone.

Dr Satyajit Naik, IPS, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Central Range, Cuttack, accompanied by Jagatsinghpur Collector J. Sonal, IAS, and Superintendent of Police Ankit Verma, IPS, visited the coastal estuary to assess preparedness measures and ensure the safe evacuation of people from vulnerable coastal areas.

During the visit, the officers reviewed the evacuation process and the shifting of residents to designated cyclone shelters. They also inspected shelter facilities to assess the availability of essential amenities and ensure adequate arrangements for the safety and well-being of evacuees.

The field-level review follows Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s directive to all departments to work on a war footing and maintain close coordination under a “Whole of Government Approach” to prevent loss of life. Senior officials are monitoring preparedness on the ground, with emphasis on coordinated emergency response, post-cyclone recovery and the speedy restoration of essential services.

To strengthen disaster response capabilities, one platoon each of the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been deployed in Jagatsinghpur district to carry out rescue, evacuation and relief operations as required.

The District Control Room and Police Control Room are operating round the clock to coordinate emergency measures, monitor the evolving situation and respond to public needs. The district administration and police are working together to ensure timely assistance and effective communication, particularly in vulnerable coastal areas.

Authorities have appealed to residents to remain calm and vigilant, cooperate with the administration, move to designated cyclone shelters whenever instructed and strictly follow official advisories.

With the zero-casualty objective as its priority, the district administration and police remain mobilised to safeguard lives and minimise the impact of the cyclone through coordinated preparedness and timely response measures.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda