Cyclone Alert / Odisha Strengthens Essential Commodities Supply Chain Ahead of Cyclone Arnab

Bhubaneswar, Oct 26: The Odisha government has intensified measures to ensure an uninterrupted supply of essential commodities across the State in view of the approaching Cyclone Arnab, officials said on Monday.

The Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Department has directed officials to maintain supply chains and keep prices of essential items stable for consumers.

Principal Secretary Sanjay Kumar Singh has instructed field-level officers to closely monitor the availability and pricing of essential commodities and take strict action against black marketing, hoarding and profiteering.

Market Monitoring

According to official data, prices of key commodities such as pulses, edible oil, sugar, potatoes and onions have remained largely stable across major markets compared to the previous week. Field officers have been asked to conduct daily inspections of wholesale and retail prices to prevent artificial shortages and price hikes.

Supply Measures

The department said ensuring smooth movement and availability of essential commodities remains a priority as cyclone preparedness efforts intensify. Steps have been taken to make essential items available at reasonable prices, particularly in vulnerable areas.

Officials also said vegetable prices may soften in the coming days as locally grown produce reaches markets in larger quantities.

Consumer Protection

The government has warned traders against engaging in hoarding or black marketing. Citizens have been advised to immediately report any such activities to the nearest Chief Supply Officer or Supply Officer. Strict action will be initiated against violators.

Cyclone Arnab

According to IMD Bhubaneswar Director Manorama Mohanty, Cyclone Arnab is expected to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by midnight of October 26 and further strengthen into a very severe cyclonic storm on October 27. The system is likely to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast near Yanam on October 28, packing winds of 115-125 kmph and gusting up to 140 kmph.

Also Read: Odisha Deputy CM Reviews Power Preparedness Ahead of Cyclone Arnab, to Camp in Koraput

Odisha is likely to experience heavy to extremely heavy rainfall from the evening of October 27, particularly in Puri, Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada and Koraput districts, she said.

The government said ensuring the availability of essential commodities at fair prices remains a key priority amid cyclone preparedness efforts.