Bhubaneswar, 02 May (H.S.): Amid reports of a possible low-pressure system forming over the Bay of Bengal, Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari on Saturday assured that the state government is fully prepared to tackle any cyclone, flood, or heatwave situation in the coming days.

The minister’s statement follows projections by several global weather models indicating the prediction of a low-pressure formation over the Bay of Bengal between May 11 and 15. However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has not yet issued any official confirmation regarding such developments.

Highlighting Odisha’s vulnerability to natural disasters, Pujari noted that the state frequently experiences cyclones, floods, and heatwaves. “Odisha is a disaster-prone state. Evening storms are common in April, while May often brings the possibility of cyclonic activity,” he said.

He emphasized that the state’s disaster management systems are on high alert and fully equipped to respond effectively to any emergency. “All necessary preparations have been put in place, and we are ready to face any situation, including floods or cyclones,” the minister added.

Pujari further stated that even though the reliability of certain forecasting agencies may vary, the government is treating all alerts seriously and maintaining constant vigilance.

His remarks come amid increasing discussions about potential weather disturbances over the southeast Bay of Bengal in the second week of May, though no official forecast has been issued so far.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda