Deep Depression: Odisha CM Orders Zero-Casualty Approach

Bhubaneswar: With a deep depression moving towards the north Andhra Pradesh–south Odisha coast, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday directed officials to adopt a “zero casualty” approach and evacuate people from waterlogged and vulnerable areas to safer locations.

Reviewing the situation at Lok Seva Bhawan, Majhi stressed coordination between state departments and district administrations. He said that although there was no cyclone threat, authorities should maintain the highest level of preparedness. The situation is expected to improve after September 25.

According to the IMD, the deep depression was located about 150 km south of Gopalpur at 5.30 am and is expected to cross the coast near Kalingapatnam by Wednesday night. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely across several districts.

Red Warning has been issued for Rayagada, Koraput, Gajapati and Ganjam, while an Orange Warning is in force for Nuapada, Balangir, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Nabarangpur, Malkangiri, Puri, Khordha and Nayagarh.

As part of the preparedness, 33 ODRAF teams have been deployed across vulnerable districts, with nine additional teams kept in reserve at Chhatrapur. District and block Emergency Operation Centres have been directed to remain operational round the clock, while shelters, essential supplies, rescue boats and emergency teams have been kept ready.

Local Cautionary Signal No. 3 has been hoisted at all ports and fishermen have been barred from venturing into the sea. The government is also monitoring rivers, reservoirs, drainage systems and vulnerable embankments in real time.