Bhubaneswar, Sept 21: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Odisha’s Berhampur scheduled on September 27 might be cancelled or shifted to Jharsuguda due to heavy rainfall forecast in coastal areas.
Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari hinted at relocating the event due to concerns over the low-pressure system, which is expected to bring heavy rainfall across the state.
Pujari stated, “The Prime Minister’s programmes are scheduled for September 27 in Berhampur. However, a low-pressure system is expected to bring heavy rain and storms around September 25, with Berhampur, being a coastal area, likely to face the most severe impact. As a result, we are considering changing the venue. We’ve identified an alternative location in Jharsuguda, which has already been inspected by the Collector and SP. We will send a report to the Prime Minister’s Office today. The PMO will make the final decision and notify us, after which we will proceed accordingly.”
It is worth noting that PM Modi was scheduled to attend the national-level "Seva Parv" programme in Berhampur, along with inaugurating and laying foundation stones for various development projects across Odisha.
However, due to the weather challenges posed by the impending low-pressure system, authorities are considering alternative venues.
Amulipali ground in Jharsuguda has been identified as a potential replacement.
However, there has been no official confirmation from the government regarding the cancellation or change of the venue for the event.
In the meantime, the administration has started dismantling the tent set up in Rangeilunda, Berhampur, due to the uncertainty surrounding the event. The Director General of Police reviewed the preparations yesterday, while the Chief Secretary assessed the situation at Lok Seva Bhavan.