Bhubaneswar, Oct 27: The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has intensified its preparedness to tackle the possible impact of Cyclone Arnab, placing all concerned departments on high alert and directing them to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of essential services. Leave for all BMC employees has been cancelled until October 30 as part of the civic body’s precautionary measures.

Mayor Sulochana Das chaired a review meeting on Monday to assess the city’s preparedness for the potential cyclone and its associated risks, including heavy rainfall, urban flooding, waterlogging and disruptions to power and other essential services.

During the meeting, the drainage, electricity and environment divisions were instructed to keep adequate equipment, vehicles, fuel and manpower ready to respond to emergencies. Officials were also directed to identify vulnerable locations and take preventive measures to minimise disruption during adverse weather conditions.

As part of the safety measures, authorities have been asked to remove hoardings and decorative arches installed at Durga Puja pandals within 24 hours. High-mast lights will be lowered wherever necessary, depending on weather conditions, while efforts will be made to keep streetlights along major roads functional.

The civic body will identify waterlogging-prone areas and deploy water pumps in advance to ensure the quick removal of accumulated rainwater. Engineers from the BMC and the Roads and Buildings (R&B) division will inspect drains, clear blockages and install barricades at vulnerable spots wherever required.

The BMC, in coordination with the Central Electricity Supply Utility of Odisha (TPCODL), will also remain on standby to address possible power outages and other electricity-related emergencies.

Residents can report waterlogging and power-related problems through helpline number 1912. A round-the-clock control room has also been made operational to coordinate preparedness measures and respond to emergencies.

With the possibility of heavy rain and related disruptions, the civic body has directed all departments and agencies to maintain close coordination and ensure a prompt response to emerging situations. The measures are aimed at reducing the risk of urban flooding, protecting public safety and maintaining essential civic services during the cyclone threat.