More than 11,000 people living near the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Odisha's Chandipur were temporarily evacuated to safer locations on Thursday ahead of a scheduled missile test by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), according to news agency PTI. Officials confirmed that 11,442 residents from 11 hamlets situated within a 3.5-km radius of Launch Pad-3 were moved as a precautionary measure. While authorities did not disclose details about the missile or the test, residents were requested to cooperate in the interest of national security.
Evacuation and Shelter Arrangements
The evacuees were shifted to multipurpose cyclone centres in Bardhanpur, Bhimpur and Tundra villages, as well as the Nidhipada Sevasram. An official stated, "Food, drinking water and other essential services are being provided to the evacuees. They are also being given remuneration for the day." Residents had also been evacuated on Wednesday and were allowed to return home later in the evening after the scheduled exercise was completed. The evacuation was carried out as a precautionary measure in consultation with DRDO, the official added.
Safety Measures for Fishing Communities
In addition to the evacuation, fishermen along the coasts of Balasore, Bhadrak and Kendrapara districts have been advised to stay away from the sea during the day as part of the safety arrangements. This ensures that no fishing activities are undertaken during the missile test period, minimizing any potential risk to life.
The Integrated Test Range at Chandipur is a key facility for DRDO's missile testing programs. Such evacuations are routine to ensure the safety of local populations during test launches. The coordinated effort between district administration and DRDO highlights the importance of community safety in defence-related activities.
