Cyclone Alert / Kandhamal Gears Up for Cyclone Murasu Impact; Over 2,300 Evacuated to 35 Shelters

Phulbani, Nov 2: Kandhamal district administration has intensified its preparedness measures to tackle the possible impact of Cyclone Murasu, ensuring the safety of vulnerable populations and strengthening emergency response systems across the district.

As part of the precautionary measures, a total of 2,394 people have been shifted to 35 permanent cyclone shelters. The evacuees include 848 men, 1,030 women and 450 children. Additionally, 146 pregnant women have been safely relocated to secure locations as a preventive measure.

To strengthen disaster response capabilities, one ODRAF team has been deployed in the district, while two NDRF teams have been stationed at G. Udayagiri and Raikia.

Also read: Ganjam, Malkangiri intensify readiness measures as Odisha braces for Cyclone Murasu

Fire and Emergency Services have also been placed on high alert, with seven fire service teams deployed in vulnerable areas, including five at G. Udayagiri and two at Raikia. Overall, nine fire service teams remain prepared for emergency operations across the district.

The administration has deployed senior officers at block and gram panchayat levels, while the district control room continues to function round the clock to monitor the situation. A proactive evacuation and preparedness drive has been carried out in 18 gram panchayats and 62 vulnerable habitations.

Authorities have ensured adequate availability of medicines, electricity, safe drinking water, toilets and cooked food at all operational shelters. To facilitate quick restoration of road connectivity in case of disruptions, 37 JCB machines have been stationed across different blocks.

Public awareness campaigns are being conducted through microphone announcements, urging residents to remain vigilant and follow official advisories. Further, standby generators, water tankers and essential supplies have been stocked in all 12 blocks of the district.

According to the district administration, the average rainfall recorded in Kandhamal till 8 am on November 2 stood at 7.58 mm, while no significant impact of strong winds has been reported so far.