State Government Fully Prepared for Cyclone mitigation
Bureau,Odishabarta
*Special Administrative Preparations
Underway in 5 Districts for Cyclone Management*
Deployment of ODRAF, NDRF, and Defence Forces Across 5 Districts
Bhubaneswar 25/10/2026: According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cyclone is expected to make landfall between South Odisha and North Andhra Pradesh on October 28, with a higher probability of making landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast. Under its impact, heavy to very heavy rainfall is anticipated across various districts of the State.
Districts in South Odisha are expected to heavy rainfall and high-speed winds. Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri are likely to be the most affected, while other coastal districts are also expected to experience rain. In view of this, schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centers in these 5 districts will remain closed on October 28 and 29.
Comprehensive measures have been undertaken by the State Government and district administrations in Gajapati, Ganjam, Koraput, Rayagada, and Malkangiri to manage the potential cyclone and heavy rainfall.Cancellation of Leave & 24/7 Control Rooms: Leave for all district-level officers and staff has been cancelled, with directions to remain present at their respective headquarters. 24/7 Control Rooms—including District Emergency Operation Centres, Block, Tehsil, and ULB units—have been made operational. Dedicated helpline numbers and toll-free services have been made available for the public.
Residents in katcha houses, thatched huts, and low-lying areas are being identified and shifted to safe cyclone shelters. Expectant mothers near their delivery dates are being relocated in advance to nearby CHCs, PHCs, and hospitals. Special arrangements are also in place for senior citizens, children, and persons with disabilities (PwDs).
High alerts have been issued for the 5 most vulnerable southern districts (Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri). To handle emergencies, a total of 24 ODRAF teams and 6 NDRF teams have been deployed as follows:Ganjam: 9 ODRAF and 2 NDRF teams (Total: 11 teams)Gajapati: 6 ODRAF and 1 NDRF team (Total: 7 teams)Rayagada: 3 ODRAF and 1 NDRF team (Total: 4 teams)Koraput: 3 ODRAF and 1 NDRF team (Total: 4 teams)Malkangiri: 3 ODRAF and 1 NDRF team (Total: 4 teams)
Zero Casualty Objective: Anchored by the State’s ‘Zero Casualty’ target, cyclone shelters in vulnerable areas have been fully readied with essential amenities.Restrictions on Sea and Tourist Destinations: Fishing activities in the sea have been completely prohibited. Tourist entry into hills, waterfalls, dams, and scenic destinations across these 5 districts has also been banned. The Agriculture Department has advised farmers to harvest and safely store crops (paddy, maize, ragi, etc.) that are 80–85% mature. Dedicated agricultural helpline numbers have been opened for assistance.
Health & Public Health Infrastructure: Measures for water chlorination, stockpiling essential medicines (snake ant venom, chlorine tablets) in hospitals, and pre-positioning restoration equipment for quick power and telecom recovery have been finalized. Livestock Protection: Provision for moving livestock to safer locations, medical treatment via Mobile Veterinary Units (MVUs), and distribution of cattle feed/fodder in affected pockets has been made.Coordination & Public Advisory: Nodal officers have been assigned charge of vulnerable sectors and linked via dedicated WhatsApp groups for real-time reporting. Citizens are requested to ignore rumors, follow official advisories, and cooperate with local authorities.
