How is Ashwini Vaishnaw Ensuring Odisha's Readiness for Cyclone Montha?
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Synopsis
As Cyclone Montha approaches, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw takes charge to ensure the safety of passengers and the smooth operation of train services. With proactive measures in place, he reviews the readiness of the East Coast and South-Central Railway zones to mitigate the storm's impact.
Key Takeaways
- Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasizes passenger safety.
- 42 trains have been canceled to ensure safety.
- Helpdesks are available for passenger assistance.
- Proactive measures include train rescheduling.
- Communication channels are maintained for updates.
Bhubaneswar, Oct 28 (NationPress) Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has instructed all personnel within the East Coast Railway (ECoR) and South-Central Railway (SCR) divisions to stay vigilant and implement proactive measures for the swift restoration of train operations following the anticipated impact of the severe cyclonic storm 'Montha'. This storm is projected to make landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, close to Kakinada, on Tuesday.
The Union Minister issued these directives during a virtual review meeting focusing on cyclone 'Montha' preparedness with senior officials from ECoR and SCR.
As per an official statement, the video conference aimed to evaluate the readiness of the railway infrastructure in light of the approaching cyclonic storm along the eastern coast.
The Railway Minister assessed the initiatives in place for passenger safety, train regulation, restoration strategies, and collaboration with local authorities and disaster management agencies.
Parmeshwar Funkwal, General Manager of East Coast Railway, along with the Principal Heads of Departments and Divisional Railway Managers, participated in the review, updating the Hon'ble Minister on the precautionary actions already taken in vulnerable areas, specifically in the Waltair and Khurda Road Divisions.
The Minister underscored the critical nature of ensuring passenger safety, maintaining open communication channels, and positioning disaster response units ahead of the storm.
In light of Cyclone 'Montha' and to prioritize passenger and operational safety, the Railways have already canceled 42 trains, diverted two, short-terminated or short-originated five, and rescheduled eight trains.
The ECoR has additionally advised passengers to verify train statuses prior to travel and to refrain from unnecessary journeys during the cyclone period. The Khurda Road Division has opened Helpdesks at Palasa, Khurda Road, and Bhubaneswar, while the Waltair Division has set up Helpdesks at Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, Srikakulam Road, Duvvada, and Rayagada since October 27.
Point of View
It is imperative that all local and national agencies work in unison to ensure the safety of citizens. The proactive measures undertaken by the Railway Minister highlight the importance of preparedness in times of natural disasters, reaffirming our commitment to public safety and operational efficiency.
NationPress
30/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions has Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw taken in response to Cyclone Montha?
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has instructed East Coast Railway (ECoR) and South-Central Railway (SCR) officials to remain vigilant, cancel certain train services, and establish Helpdesks to assist travelers.
How many trains have been affected by Cyclone Montha?
So far, 42 trains have been canceled, 2 diverted, 5 short-terminated, and 8 rescheduled due to the impending severe cyclonic storm.
Where can passengers find help regarding train services during the cyclone?
Helpdesks have been set up in various locations, including Palasa, Khurda Road, and Bhubaneswar in the Khurda Road Division, and at Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, Srikakulam Road, Duvvada, and Rayagada in the Waltair Division.
What precautions should travelers take during Cyclone Montha?
Passengers are advised to check the latest train status before their journey and to avoid unnecessary travel during the cyclone period.
What is the expected impact of Cyclone Montha on the Andhra Pradesh coast?
Cyclone Montha is expected to make landfall between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, posing significant risks to safety and transport operations.
