G. Udayagiri, November 2: With Cyclone Murashu approaching, the Kandhamal district administration has stepped up precautionary measures to ensure the safety of people living in vulnerable hilly areas across the district.

As part of the preparedness measures, arrangements are being made to evacuate residents from vulnerable locations to nearby cyclone shelters.

During a field visit to Hastinapur village, located at the foothills under Lingagada Gram Panchayat, residents were found preparing to move to the Lingagada shelter centre following instructions from block officials and the local Sarpanch.

Taking the potential threat of the cyclone seriously, villagers have decided to leave their homes and move to safer locations, carrying only their essential clothing and belongings. They have left their household items behind and are also making arrangements to ensure the safety of their cattle and goats rather than keeping them tied inside their sheds during the cyclone.

However, local farmers remain worried about possible damage to crops cultivated in their fields due to the approaching storm.

Meanwhile, the district administration is planning to undertake evacuation drives in vulnerable hilly areas of several blocks, including G. Udayagiri, Raikia, Tikabali and Daringbadi. The initiative aims to relocate residents to designated shelters and minimise the risk to human life during the impending cyclone.

The administration has urged people living in vulnerable areas to cooperate with evacuation teams and follow safety instructions.