Bhubaneswar, Oct 31: Relief and restoration operations have been intensified in Aska town of Ganjam district following disruptions caused by Cyclone 'Arnab', with the district administration stepping up efforts to restore normalcy.

Ganjam Collector and District Magistrate Keerthi Vasan V said the overall situation in Aska was gradually improving due to coordinated efforts by various departments.

According to the Collector, traffic-related issues have largely been resolved, with parked heavy vehicles moved to clear space for relief operations. Most buses have also been relocated, while arrangements are being made to move the remaining vehicles.

For relief distribution, around 20 autos and 10 tractors have been deployed since Wednesday evening. The administration has also distributed nearly 30,000 drinking water bottles and deployed 10 water tankers. The number of tankers is being increased to 30-35 to ensure an adequate supply of drinking water.

Additional lighting arrangements have been made across Aska town, with fuel kept on standby. Sufficient cooked food is also being distributed throughout the day to support affected residents.

Meanwhile, TPSODL has assured the administration that electricity supply will be restored by Thursday morning.

Chief Secretary Anu Garg is closely monitoring the situation in coordination with the Ganjam Collector to ensure the effective implementation of relief and restoration measures.

The district administration has decided to continue relief and support arrangements for at least a week or until normalcy is fully restored. With improved traffic management and enhanced supplies of drinking water, food and other essential services, the situation in Aska is expected to improve further.