Ganjam Steps Up Preparedness as Deep Depression Threatens Heavy Rainfall; Red Warning for Sept 23-24

Chatrapur: The Ganjam district administration has intensified its preparedness measures as a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal is likely to move close to the district, bringing the possibility of heavy rainfall and strong winds. An Orange Warning is currently in force, while a Red Warning has been issued for September 23 and 24.

The district is likely to experience heavy rainfall accompanied by winds gusting at 50-60 kmph during the period. In view of the weather system, 24-hour control rooms have been activated at both district and block levels.

Ganjam Collector V Keerthi Vasan said the administration is fully prepared to deal with any eventuality and directed officials to closely monitor the evolving weather conditions.

Advising people to exercise caution amid the possibility of heavy rain and lightning, the Collector urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel. He also appealed to farmers not to venture into agricultural fields over the next three to four days.

The administration has identified vulnerable areas prone to flooding and waterlogging, while cyclone and flood shelters have been kept ready across all blocks. Residents living near rivers and the sea will be evacuated to safer locations if necessary.

Special attention is being given to Digapahandi and Sanakhemundi, which witnessed flood situations following heavy rainfall last year. Tumba in Patrapur block and riverine areas of Chikiti have also been identified as vulnerable locations.

Landslide-prone stretches along Kalinga Ghat have been identified, and fire services and ODRAF teams have been deployed in the area. If required, a decision on regulating traffic through Kalinga Ghat will be taken in consultation with the Kandhamal district administration.

The Collector has directed officials to conduct field visits and maintain close surveillance of the situation. The health, electricity, police, ODRAF, fire services, National Highways and Rural Development departments have been placed on alert.

The electricity department has been instructed to undertake immediate restoration work in the event of damage to power poles or transmission lines.

A decision on the closure of schools and colleges will be taken based on the rainfall situation. Government employees have been directed not to leave their headquarters, while those currently on leave have been asked to return immediately, as per reports.