Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s helicopter was forced to make an emergency landing in Puri on Monday evening after encountering adverse weather conditions while returning from an official programme in Mayurbhanj district.
According to officials, the Chief Minister, accompanied by Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling, was on his way back to Bhubaneswar after attending an event in Baripada when deteriorating weather conditions compelled the pilot to divert the flight as a precautionary measure.
The helicopter landed safely at the temporary helipad at Samang in Puri. Authorities confirmed that the Chief Minister and all passengers on board were unharmed.
Speaking to reporters, Puri Collector Dibya Jyoti Parida said, “The Chief Minister and all others in the helicopter are safe. He will leave for Bhubaneswar after some time.”
Officials stated that strong winds and a nor’wester, a seasonal thunderstorm commonly experienced in eastern India during the pre-monsoon period, created challenging flying conditions. Prioritizing passenger safety, the pilot decided to make an emergency landing instead of continuing the journey to the state capital.
The sudden change in weather led to reduced visibility and turbulent conditions, prompting aviation authorities and the flight crew to take precautionary measures. The safe landing was carried out without any incident.
Sources in the administration said that the Chief Minister’s onward travel plans would depend on weather conditions. If the situation does not improve sufficiently for air travel, he and other officials may return to Bhubaneswar by road.
The incident highlights the impact of the prevailing weather system across parts of Odisha, where strong winds, thunderstorms, and intermittent rainfall have been reported in several districts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued weather advisories for various regions of the state, warning of gusty winds and thunderstorm activity.
The Chief Minister had travelled to Baripada earlier in the day to participate in official engagements and public programmes. His schedule was completed as planned before the return journey was interrupted by the sudden deterioration in weather.
Authorities in Puri and Bhubaneswar remained in close coordination following the landing, ensuring all necessary security and logistical arrangements for the Chief Minister's safe return.
The prompt decision by the pilot and the coordination between aviation and district authorities ensured that the situation was handled smoothly, with no injuries or damage reported.
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