Odisha sounds cyclone alert,informs MHA to keep choppers ready

“Depending on the situation, the state government may require the assistance of defence forces especially the Indian Air Force for rescue and relief operations by air,” Mohapatra said.

The Ministry of Home Affairs and the National Disaster Management Authority have been requested to make advance arrangements to keep in readiness IAF helicopters and NDRF personnel at short notice, he said.

The MHA, NDMA and other departments have been told to remain prepared for a possible cyclonic storm, he said