Koraput: Cops on Monday sounded a high alert in the Maoist-hit Malkangiri, Koraput and Rayagada districts of south Odisha as the rebels observe August 15 as a "Black Day".

Combing operation in collaboration with the BSF have been intensified in Malkangiri, while additional forces have also been deployed at vulnerable points to avert any eventuality.

"All police stations have been kept on high alert and necessary precautionary measures have been taken to avoid any untoward incident," said Malkangiri police superintendent Jagmohan Meena.

The cops have started frisking vehicles entering into the district and border areas have been kept under strict vigil to stop a possible influx of Maoists from neighbouring Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh.

The alertness of Malkangiri police is understandable given that at least 15 Maoists were killed in an exchange of fire in bordering Sukuma district of Chhattisgarh last week and the rebels may try to execute a major offensive in Malkangiri in retaliation.

Another source in the administration in Malkangiri said by conducting village meetings at Poplur, Kurmanur, Bodigeta and in several pockets of Kalimela and Podia blocks, the rebels have urged people not to hoist the Tricolour at educational institutions and government offices.

Each year, the Maoists observe Independence Day as Black Day in protest against the government's alleged failure in developing the tribal areas.

Koraput police superintendent Kanwar Vishal Singh also said that they were prepared to face any eventuality.

Rayagada additional police superintendent Y. Jagannath Rao said that anti-Maoist operations were intensified in Kashipur and Niyamgiri areas.