Odisha Govt Suspends 4 Officials For Neglecting Duty During Cyclone Dana; Central Team To Visit Soon

Bhubaneswar: Four Odisha government officials have been suspended for dereliction of duty and illtreating people during cyclone Dana.

Giving this information on Saturday, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said the four suspended officials included three PEOs and one Revenue Inspector (RI). “They have been placed under suspension for dereliction of duty during Cyclone Dana. Their behaviour was harsh towards the public,” he told reporters.

This apart, reports have been sought from Collectors regarding some other employees, who have allegedly violated government rules in certain districts. An investigation is underway in this regard.

Stressing that the government officers who served people during the emergency situation will be praised, the Minister said action will be taken against those who violated rules and neglected their duty.

Stating that the focus of the government is now on the rehabilitation of people, Pujari said and the process will start after conducting a thorough survey of the damage caused by the cyclone. Officers have been clearly instructed to ensure an error-free assessment, he said.

As per preliminary assessment, several houses have been partially and fully damaged and agricultural land affected in 13 districts. The state also carried out the highest evacuation, the Minister said, adding that the assessment of damage caused by the cyclone will be completed within a week.

A central team is also likely to visit soon for assessment of damage. Before the release of funds from Centre, the state government will start disbursing assistance and compensation on its own. Electricity has been restored to 22 lakh households and pending restoration work will be completed by Saturday evening, the Minister said.

While some areas are witnessing flash flood-like situation following heavy rain the cyclone, the state government said efforts are on to tackle any situation. Officials said no flood situation has emerged anywhere so far.

A close watch is being kept on the water level of Budhabalanga river which is flowing below the danger mark at present.

Pujari said the state government had set a ‘zero casualty’ target and it has been achieved due to coordinated efforts of officials, public and rescue teams.