The Odisha government has requested the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) to approve a change in venue for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's public meeting scheduled for September 27, 2025. The event was initially planned to be held in Berhampur, but a forecast of heavy rainfall and storms has prompted the state government to propose shifting the location to Jharsuguda.

Odisha's Disaster Management Minister, Suresh Pujari, stated that the decision to seek a change in venue was made in light of weather forecasts predicting significant rainfall and thunderstorms in the region until September 27. Berhampur, being a coastal town, is expected to experience the maximum impact of the approaching low-pressure system. Pujari mentioned that while preparations for the event were underway in Berhampur, the weather forecast necessitated a change in plans.

"We have decided Jharsuguda as the alternative venue for the PM's meeting and accordingly sought permission from the PMO," Pujari said. He also added that the Collector and Superintendent of Police (SP) of Jharsuguda have inspected the Amulipali ground, which is being considered as the new venue. A report regarding the suitability of the alternative venue has been sent to the PMO, which will make the final decision.

PM Modi was scheduled to attend the national-level "Seva Parv" programme in Berhampur. In addition to this, he was also expected to inaugurate and lay foundation stones for several development projects across Odisha. Authorities have assured that all necessary arrangements will be made in Jharsuguda to ensure the smooth conduct of the event if the venue is shifted.

Amidst the uncertainty, the administration has begun dismantling the tents erected at Rangeilunda in Berhampur. The Director General of Police (DGP) has already reviewed the preparations, and Chief Secretary Pradeep Kumar Jena held a detailed assessment at Lok Seva Bhavan.

While the state government awaits official confirmation from the PMO regarding the change in venue, preparations for the Prime Minister's visit continue in Jharsuguda. The final decision from the PMO is expected soon, after which further arrangements will be made accordingly.

This visit marks PM Modi's sixth trip to Odisha in the past 15 months, since the BJP formed the government in the state. The BJP and the state government had planned to plant 75 lakh saplings on September 17 to mark the Prime Minister's 75th birthday.