Cyclone Alert / Odisha Deputy CM Reviews Power Preparedness Ahead of Cyclone Arnab, to Camp in Koraput

Bhubaneswar, Oct 26: Odisha Deputy Chief Minister and Energy Minister, Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo on Monday chaired a high-level review meeting to assess disaster preparedness and operational readiness of the Energy Department in view of the impending Cyclone Arnab, directing officials to ensure grid resilience, uninterrupted emergency response and zero casualties across vulnerable regions.

The review focused on the critical period between October 26 and 29, covering southern and coastal districts likely to be impacted by the cyclonic system. As part of the government's preparedness strategy, Mr. Singh Deo will remain stationed in Koraput during the cyclone period to oversee emergency operations and monitor the ground situation in the southern region.

Multi-Tier Command Network

To facilitate rapid restoration of power infrastructure, the Odisha Power Transmission Corporation Limited (OPTCL) has established a multi-tier emergency command network. It includes a 24x7 central control room at STAMC Chandaka, zonal supervision from Narendrapur, and 11 field control centres located in vulnerable areas such as Narendrapur, Chatrapur, Bhanjanagar, Jayanagar, Malkangiri, Theruvali, Kesinga, Samangara, Paradeep, Bhadrak and Balasore.Officials said all command centres have been made fully operational with dedicated vigilance teams, communication systems, backup diesel generators and DC power arrangements to maintain connectivity during emergencies.

Materials Pre-Positioned

OPTCL has also pre-positioned critical restoration materials across strategic locations. These include 83 sets of emergency towers for 132 kV, 220 kV and 400 kV transmission lines, 1,115 km of conductors and 9,157 hardware fitting sets.

The Energy Department said the objective is to restore damaged power infrastructure at the earliest once weather conditions become conducive for field operations.

Priority for Essential Services

During restoration efforts, priority will be accorded to essential public services, including hospitals, schools and cyclone shelters, to ensure continuity of critical services and public safety.

Consumers will receive updates on restoration activities and estimated timelines through automated SMS alerts. The 24x7 power system control centre at Ambagada, Berhampur, will function as the Central Emergency Control Centre for TPSODL.
Also Read: Cyclone Arnab: Indian Railways Cancels Several Trains, Curtails Hirakhand Express Services

Citizens can contact the emergency control centre at 9124293314 or reach the toll-free helplines 1912 and 18002026 for assistance.

The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Energy, Vishal Kumar Dev, along with senior officials of OPTCL, Tata Power and the Energy Department.