Odisha government transfers Aska municipality executive officer after flooding
The Housing and Urban Development department issued the transfer order for Rajesh Kumar Mohapatra following heavy rainfall caused by cyclone Arnab.
The Odisha state government on Wednesday transferred Rajesh Kumar Mohapatra, the executive officer (EO) of Aska municipality, according to The New Indian Express.
The Housing and Urban Development department issued the transfer order and directed Mohapatra to join the department immediately. No reasons were stated for the transfer.
The move follows heavy rainfall from cyclone Arnab, which caused flooding in Aska town. Some low-lying areas experienced waterlogging of up to 10 feet.
Sources alleged that municipality authorities received advance warnings about the rainfall but failed to take adequate precautionary measures. Residents reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with the civic body's response.
Sources also indicated that a heated exchange allegedly took place between the Aska MLA and the EO regarding the crisis management. Public anger was also directed at the legislator.
The Ganjam collector has been asked to assign the additional charge of the Aska municipality EO to another district officer. This officer will serve until a regular appointment is made.