- Collectors Instructed to Exercise Special Caution from October 27 to 29
In view of the potential impact of the cyclonic storm ‘Arnab,’ which has emerged in the Bay of Bengal, the state government of Chhattisgarh has been placed on high alert. A high-level meeting was held at the Mantralaya (Mahanadi Bhawan), during which Collectors from all districts across the state were directed to remain on high alert.
The meeting, chaired by Additional Chief Secretary Mr. Manoj Kumar Pingua, reviewed the necessary preparations for the period of October 27 to 29 in light of the cyclone. Collectors from all districts and senior officials from various departments participated in the meeting via video conferencing.
- Goal: Zero Loss of Life; Stringent Safety Measures
The Additional Chief Secretary instructed officials to ensure full preparedness to tackle the cyclone and to treat weather-related warnings with the utmost seriousness. The primary focus of the meeting was to ensure zero loss of life. Specific instructions were issued to maintain heightened vigilance in the South Bastar region—covering the districts of Bijapur, Sukma, Dantewada, Bastar, and Narayanpur—where strong winds are expected. Directives were given to keep relief camps operational 24/7 and to ensure they are equipped with all necessary facilities. The Health Secretary has been instructed to ensure the uninterrupted availability of medical services; additionally, a list of pregnant women is to be prepared, with arrangements made to relocate them to safe areas if necessary.
Instructions have also been issued to provide detailed advisories to farmers regarding their crops and to take proactive steps to minimize potential damage to agricultural produce and livestock. Furthermore, authorities have been directed to assess local conditions and implement safety measures to protect school-going children and young children attending Anganwadi centers. Teams from the NDRF and SDRF have been instructed to remain fully prepared at designated locations.
- Directives to Ensure Uninterrupted Infrastructure and Services
During the meeting, Ms. Shammi Abidi, Secretary of the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, directed that an assessment be made of potential damage to ‘kutcha’ (makeshift/non-permanent) houses caused by strong winds, and that people from vulnerable areas be relocated to safe places in a timely manner. The Electricity Department has been asked to remain prepared to address any damage resulting from the collapse of electricity poles. Furthermore, instructions have been issued to ensure alternative arrangements are in place so that telecommunication services remain uninterrupted. Provisions have also been made for the immediate removal of any trees that may fall due to strong winds, ensuring that roads remain clear and traffic flow continues smoothly. Emphasis has also been placed on assessing the stability of hoardings and other potentially unsafe structures.
This high-level meeting was attended by Mr. Amit Kataria, Secretary of the Health and Family Welfare Department, along with senior officials from the NDRF, SDRF, the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, and the Home Department. The state government has directed all departments to work in coordination and maintain a high state of alertness to handle any emergency situation.