Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Energy Department has stepped up preparations to deal with the possible impact of Cyclone Arnab, with arrangements for power supply management and post-cyclone restoration nearing completion. Special attention is being given to districts likely to be affected, particularly in southern Odisha.
Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment and Energy Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo chaired a review meeting on Saturday to assess the department’s preparedness and response arrangements.
Speaking to mediapersons after the meeting, Singh Deo said the department had reviewed preparedness with Tata Power Chairman and Managing Director Dr Praveer Kumar Sinha and TPCODL CEO Gajanan Kale. He said TPCODL and TPSODL had completed their preparedness measures to deal with the impending cyclone.
The Energy Department will continuously monitor the situation, he said, adding that officials had been directed to remain alert and ensure prompt action in the event of any disruption. The public is also being advised to take necessary precautions during heavy rain and strong winds.
Singh Deo said the state government’s priority remained ensuring zero casualties, in line with the direction of the Chief Minister. He noted that Odisha had considerable experience in managing cyclones and stressed the need for preparedness and timely response.
Farmers advised to take precautions
The Deputy Chief Minister also said the Agriculture Department’s preparedness had been reviewed with officials from districts across the state. The state government has cancelled the leave of concerned district officials to ensure their availability during the situation.
According to Singh Deo, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that Cyclone Arnab is moving towards Andhra Pradesh and is not expected to have a significant impact on Odisha at present. However, wind speeds of 60–80 kmph are expected, prompting the state to remain prepared.
Farmers have been advised to cover harvested crops to protect them from rain. Those whose crops are yet to be harvested have been asked to postpone cutting them for the time being. Singh Deo said he and the Agriculture Secretary would remain available to assist farmers during the period.
The IMD Director General, Vice-Chancellor of Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Agriculture Director and other officials have also held discussions with district-level officers and issued necessary advisories.
The government is maintaining coordination between departments to monitor developments and ensure timely response measures. The Energy Department’s preparations include arrangements for restoration work after the cyclone, while district officials have been directed to focus on public safety and readiness in potentially affected areas.
