Odisha Reviews Water Resources Preparedness for Cyclone Arnab

The Odisha Water Resources Department has reviewed its preparedness to deal with the anticipated impact of Cyclone ‘Arnab’ on the state, with a special focus on reservoir management, rainfall monitoring and emergency response measures.

A review meeting was held under the chairpersonship of Engineer-in-Chief Er. Dillip Kumar Rout to assess the department’s readiness and ensure timely action in response to the evolving weather situation.

Reservoirs and River Levels Under Close Watch

During the meeting, officials reviewed rainfall forecasts, reservoir status, water inflows and outflows, and the preparedness of field-level formations. Engineers were instructed to continuously monitor rainfall, river levels and reservoir conditions to ensure that appropriate measures could be taken promptly.

Special attention was given to major and medium reservoirs in southern Odisha, including Indravati, Kolab, Balimela, Bhanjanagar, Harabhangi and Bhaskel. Officials discussed the need to closely monitor water levels and maintain adequate storage capacity to accommodate the anticipated inflows from cyclonic rainfall.

The management and current status of Hirakud Dam were also reviewed in detail.

Engineers Asked to Remain Vigilant

The concerned engineers were advised to remain alert and regularly assess the situation in their respective areas. They were instructed to take prompt action whenever necessary and maintain close coordination with district administrations.

The meeting also stressed the importance of sharing relevant information without delay to facilitate effective coordination among the departments and field-level teams.

Embankment Inspections and Emergency Readiness

Officials discussed the need for regular inspections of vulnerable points along river embankments to identify potential risks and take preventive measures.

The department also emphasised keeping field teams ready for emergencies and ensuring the availability of adequate manpower and materials for immediate response. These measures are aimed at minimising potential risks associated with heavy rainfall and rising river levels during the cyclone.

Senior Engineers Attend Review Meeting

Chief Engineers, Chief Construction Engineers and concerned Executive Engineers from the Tel Basin, Indravati-Kolab Basin, Rushikulya-Bansadhara-Nagavali (RBVN), Potteru and Mahanadi Basin attended the meeting.

The review focused on strengthening preparedness, ensuring effective reservoir management and maintaining coordination among field formations and district administrations as Odisha prepares for the possible impact of Cyclone Arnab.