BHUBANESWAR: With the IMD forecasting a cyclone to make landfall between south Odisha and north Andhra Pradesh on October 28, with a higher probability of crossing the Andhra coast, the Odisha govt on Sunday said it has undertaken extensive preparedness measures in five vulnerable southern districts to minimise damage and ensure zero casualties.Under the cyclone’s impact, heavy to very heavy rainfall and strong winds are expected in parts of south Odisha. Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri are likely to be the worst affected, while other coastal districts may also receive rain.As a precautionary measure, schools, colleges and anganwadi centres in these five districts will remain closed on October 28 and 29.The state govt has cancelled leave for all district-level officers and employees in the five districts and directed them to remain at their headquarters.Round-the-clock control rooms, including District Emergency Operation Centres and units at block, tehsil and urban local body levels, have been activated. Dedicated helplines and toll-free numbers have also been made operational.People living in kutcha houses, thatched structures and low-lying areas are being identified and shifted to cyclone shelters and other safe locations.Expectant mothers nearing their delivery dates are being moved in advance to nearby hospitals, CHCs and PHCs. Special arrangements have also been made for senior citizens, children and persons with disabilities.To strengthen emergency response, the govt has deployed 24 ODRAF teams and six NDRF teams across the five districts. Ganjam has been allotted 11 teams, including two NDRF units, followed by Gajapati with seven teams.Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri have received four teams each.Authorities have fully readied cyclone shelters with essential facilities in line with the state’s zero-casualty strategy. Fishing in the sea has been prohibited, while entry of tourists to hills, waterfalls, dams and other tourist destinations in the five districts has been restricted.The agriculture department has advised farmers to harvest and safely store paddy, maize, ragi and other crops that are 80-85% mature. Special agricultural helplines have been opened for assistance.The health department has stocked essential medicines, chlorine tablets and snake anti-venom, while arrangements have been made for chlorination of drinking water and rapid restoration of power and telecom services.Measures have also been taken to shift livestock to safer places, provide veterinary care through mobile veterinary units and ensure the supply of fodder in affected areas.The govt has urged people not to believe rumours, follow official advisories and cooperate with local authorities during the cyclonic weather.