The Central Government has increased focus on coordination with the states in view of the possibility of cyclone Arnab hitting the Bay of Bengal. On Monday, Cabinet Secretary Dr T V Somanathan met the chief secretaries of different states to discuss the readiness and give them directions for the emergency measures.
Additional Chief Secretary of A.C.S., Chhattisgarh, Manoj Kumar Pingua took part in the meeting on video conference from the Chhattisgarh Mantralaya in Mahanadi and acquainted officials with the preparations done by the State Government in Chhattisgarh.
Seven SDRF Teams Kept Ready
They were alerted by relevant departments in Chhattisgarh to “respond” to emergencies if any happen, Pingua said. Authorities are taking precautionary measures due to high rainfall forecast in the South Bastar region during October 28th.
Seven teams of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been prepared and provided with all the necessary rescue equipment. Home Guards and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams are also ready to act in case of any emergency.
The Government of the State has taken arrangements for Relief camps, Health care facilities, Food supplies, Transportation and Communications in affected areas, which user has the potential to get affected by the earthquake. Arrangements would also be put in place to relocate people to safe areas and set up of relief camps, authorities stated, if necessary.
Zero Casualties Given Top Priority
At that Cabinet meeting, the Cabinet Secretary reiterated the need for life-saving to be at the top of the agenda as the cyclone is being called upon to respond.
He advised the states on the need to be alert for any dangers, such as fallen trees, collapsing walls and any accident due to unsafe movement during extreme weather.
Precaution measures will be taken to reduce loss of life and immediate rescue and relief operations, if it worsens, said the authorities of Chhattisgarh.
The State’s Disaster Management team is on standby mode wherein the developing weather situation is being closely observed so as to react in case of any effects of cyclone.