Odisha CM asks depts to plan for dry spell

The state has received 64% less rainfall compared to the normal level till date

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today asked various government departments to get ready with a combat plan to tackle possible divergent climatic conditions - drought and flood- during the current monsoon season.

Though monsoon has reached the Odisha coast, due to its weak strength, the state has received 64 per cent less rainfall compared to the normal level till date.

“The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted deficient rainfall during the monsoon season this year. To meet such a situation Departments of Agriculture, Water Resources, Housing and Urban Development, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Cooperation and other concerned departments should prepare an appropriate contingency plan in a week’s time,” Patnaik said while addressing the state level committee on natural calamities here.

Apart from dealing with possible drought situation, the state government has advised its officials to be careful about flood situations as well.

“In spite of deficient rainfall in Odisha as predicted by the IMD, floods cannot be totally ruled out and we have to remain in full preparedness to face any situation,” Patnaik said at the meeting, which was also attended by Leader of Opposition Narasimha Mishra.

The chief minister asked the Water Resources department to take immediate steps to close breaches in all river embankments, complete requisition of required number of boats for relief and rescue operations and keep 10 Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) units in readiness.

He stressed on the standard flood preparedness such as stocking of food materials and essential commodities in the vulnerable and inaccessible areas, provision for supply of cattle feed, arrangements for supply of drinking water, health and hygiene, immediate restoration of public utilities and essential services. Patnaik, who has been praised for his effective handling of Phailin and post-Phailin works in the state, also asked the forest and environment department to take up massive plantation besides taking care of existing plantations.

“The state government is taking all possible steps to combat any natural calamity during the monsoon. I have asked all concerned departments to stay prepared for any contingency and take necessary steps in this regard,” he told reporters after the meeting.