Panic gripped residents of this pilgrim city located in close proximity to the seacoast after a severe cyclone warning was issued by the Government. The residents recounted the horror of the 1999 Super Cyclone.
People were in a hurry to buy essential commodities and unscrupulous businessmen raised prices manifold.
The district administration has made elaborate arrangements to minimise possible damages due to cyclone. The District Magistrate sent teams to all the 11 blocks to prepare for relief, rescue and rehabilitation.
Adequate quantities of dry food, rise, flattened rice, kerosene oil, candle sticks, medicines, animal feed and other essentials were being stored at various facilities. large numbers of country boats and motorboats were being kept ready, informed District Magistrate NK Nayak.
Since there was warning of possible sea ingress to land with a height of two meters, a massive evacuation of families living at Pentkota fishermen’s colony and other low-lying areas close to the beach would be undertaken on Friday morning, Nayak added.
Besides, all cyclone shelters were being equipped with essentials.
The worst hit is the hospitality industry which was all out to cash in on the Puja holiday rush. A hotelier said hundreds of bookings were cancelled during two days.