Odisha Govt Cancels Leaves of All Employees Ahead of Possible Cyclone

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has cancelled the leaves of all state employees in light of a possible cyclone brewing over the Bay of Bengal, expected to form around October 23. This decision comes as the state braces for the potential impact of the cyclonic storm.

Following a high-level review meeting on Sunday evening, Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) and Additional Chief Secretary Deo Ranjan Singh addressed the media, stating, “All state government employees’ leaves have been cancelled in view of the possible cyclone. Employees are directed to remain stationed at their respective locations and perform their duties until further notice.”

When questioned about the potential closure of schools and colleges, Singh responded that a decision on this matter has not yet been finalized. “However, District Collectors have been empowered to make decisions based on the evolving situation in their respective areas,” he added.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast the formation of a cyclone over the Bay of Bengal by October 23. The system is expected to move northwestward, potentially reaching the northwest Bay of Bengal, near the Odisha and West Bengal coasts, by the morning of October 24.

As a result, the Odisha coastline is predicted to experience escalating wind speeds, beginning at 40-50 kmph on the evening of October 23, with gusts up to 60 kmph. By the night of October 24, winds may intensify to 100-120 kmph, posing significant risks to the coastal regions.

The state government has been monitoring the situation closely, and further precautionary measures, including possible evacuations and preparedness strategies, will be implemented as necessary to safeguard residents.