Brahmapur: With a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal likely to trigger heavy rainfall and strong winds, the Ganjam district administration has gone into high alert, putting in place a comprehensive disaster-response plan, including the suspension of traffic on Kalinga Ghat from September 23.
The decision to close Kalinga Ghat from September 23 to the morning of September 24 was taken in view of the possibility of landslides and heavy rain, following consultations with the Kandhamal district administration. The Collector has advised commuters and vehicle operators to use alternative routes during the closure.
According to the India Meteorological Department forecast, Ganjam may experience heavy rainfall on September 23, with continuous rainfall likely on September 22 and 24. Winds may reach 40–50 kmph. Fishermen have been advised against venturing into the sea, while tehsildars have been directed to closely monitor the situation.
The administration has kept 110 cyclone shelters and more than 1,000 temporary shelters ready across the district. Two special ODRAF teams will be deployed in the Bhanjanagar and Chikiti-Patrapur areas for emergency response and rescue operations.
Collector V. Keerthi Vasan directed officials to ensure adequate stocks of medicines and facilitate the shifting of pregnant women to safe delivery centres wherever necessary.
Meanwhile, 24×7 control-room arrangements have been activated at the District Emergency Operation Centre, tehsils, blocks and urban areas. People can contact the District Emergency Operation Centre helpline at 06811-263978 in case of emergencies.
The administration has urged people to remain indoors during lightning, avoid electrical appliances and wires, and refrain from taking shelter under trees, in open fields or near water bodies.
Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Debadatta Panda, Zilla Parishad CEO Samir Kumar Jena, IAS probationer S. Saranya and District Emergency Officer Sunil Sai Debashish were among those present during the preparedness review.