Odisha on High Alert as Deep Depression Nears Coast, Schools Shut in 12 Districts
Odisha braces for a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal, with heavy rain forecast, schools closed in 12 districts, and 33 ODRAF teams deployed.
Odisha has stepped up preparations as a deep depression over the west-central and adjoining northwest Bay of Bengal is expected to cross the North Andhra Pradesh–South Odisha coast between Visakhapatnam and Gopalpur. The system is likely to pass close to Kalingapatnam in Andhra Pradesh by Wednesday night.
According to the India Meteorological Department, thunderstorms and heavy to very heavy rain are forecast for Kalahandi, Nabarangpur, Koraput and Malkangiri. Several other districts — Bargarh, Subarnapur, Boudh, Nuapada, Balangir, Kandhamal, Rayagada, Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri, Khordha and Nayagarh — are also expected to receive heavy rain and have been placed on high alert.
An IMD official said thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty surface winds reaching 50–60 kmph are very likely at one or two places over these districts. The department has warned of localised flooding in low-lying areas and the closure of underpasses, mainly in urban areas. Rainfall may also trigger landslides, mudslides, landslips and land subsidence, while communication lines are expected to be affected.
Mudslides and damage to trees have already been reported from Ganjam and Gajapati districts.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has directed the administration to evacuate people to safer ground. Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said at least 33 teams of the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force have been deployed across various districts, with nine more on standby.
Fishermen have been cautioned against venturing into the sea. Schools and anganwadis have been closed in 12 districts, and authorities have been instructed to keep emergency lines functional and manned round the clock.
Officials said vulnerable areas are being identified and shelters are being kept stocked with food and other essentials. Multiple fire service teams have been kept on standby with lifeboats and jackets.
The water resources department has been asked to monitor water levels in major rivers and reservoirs, inspect vulnerable embankments, and coordinate with district authorities on the release of water wherever required.