Bhubaneswar, Nov 1: The Odisha government today directed officials to expedite the restoration of damaged drinking water projects, rural roads, bridges and other rural infrastructure, deploying additional manpower and resources wherever necessary.

A review meeting on the progress of relief, restoration and rehabilitation works in areas affected by cyclone Arnab was held at Lok Seva Bhawan today. Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water, Rabi Narayan Naik chaired the meeting and reviewed the ongoing interventions in the cyclone-affected areas.

During the meeting, departmental officials briefed the Minister on the status of drinking water supply and restoration works in the affected areas. In 2593 of the damaged tube wells, repair and disinfection work has been completed. Of the 393 affected piped water supply schemes, 162 have been restored to operation, while 227 piped water supply sources have been disinfected. To ensure water safety, 746 tube well water samples and 185 piped water supply samples have been tested.

For emergency drinking water supply, 235 water tankers, 80 tractor-mounted Sintex tanks and 16 dedicated water supply tractors have been deployed. Eight Mobile Water Treatment Units have been deployed in Ganjam district, with four more being mobilised.

The Minister emphasised that uninterrupted drinking water supply must remain a top priority in all affected areas.

He directed officials to closely monitor the situation and ensure that drinking water supply is not disrupted due to the cyclone and heavy rainfall. Wherever piped water supply systems have been damaged or supply has been interrupted, immediate alternative arrangements must be made to ensure access to safe drinking water.

Also Read: Odisha: Telecom connectivity restored in 99% blocks in flood-hit Ganjam

Naik also stressed the need for advance preparedness to tackle the possible cyclone Murasu. He directed officials to remain alert and ensure the availability of drinking water, essential materials and emergency services in areas likely to be affected. All necessary arrangements should be made in advance to respond effectively to any eventuality.