Is Odisha Prepared for Cyclone ‘Montha’?
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Synopsis
As Cyclone ‘Montha’ approaches, Odisha is gearing up for potential impact. With eight districts in the Red Zone, authorities are taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of residents. Find out how the state is preparing and what precautions are being implemented.
Key Takeaways
- Eight districts in Odisha are on high alert.
- Preparations include evacuation measures and deployment of emergency teams.
- Authorities are closely monitoring the cyclone's trajectory.
- Residents are advised to stay informed and follow evacuation orders.
- Stricter regulations against black marketing of essentials have been imposed.
Bhubaneswar, Oct 26 (NationPress) Odisha's Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari conducted a thorough assessment of the state's readiness for the impending cyclonic system 'Montha' during a crucial high-level meeting.
While addressing journalists, Pujari announced that eight districts in southern Odisha—Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Ganjam, Gajapati, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, and Nabarangpur—have been categorized as Red Zone due to their potential vulnerability.
He emphasized that the authorities in all 30 districts, irrespective of their risk status, must remain vigilant and prepared for any unforeseen circumstances if the cyclone alters its path. The minister noted that a deep depression over the southeast Bay of Bengal has been advancing west-northwest at a pace of approximately 6 kilometers per hour over the last six hours.
The system is anticipated to continue moving west-northwest and may escalate into a cyclonic storm within the next 24 hours. Furthermore, it is expected to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm, making landfall on the Andhra Pradesh coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam near Kakinada during the evening or night of October 28.
Pujari mentioned that Malkangiri district is situated roughly 200 km from the projected landfall location of the cyclone.
During the high-level meeting, the revenue minister reviewed the preparedness strategies with Collectors from all 30 districts. Collectors from districts not directly impacted by the cyclone have been directed to provide additional support teams if necessary, which could also assist neighboring districts.
“In recent months, we have observed a surge in landslides becoming a significant challenge for Odisha due to heavy rainfall. District Collectors have been tasked with pinpointing hilly areas and regions susceptible to landslides and implementing precautionary measures,” stated Pujari.
Given the likelihood of landslides in Gajapati district, teams from the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and Fire Services have been pre-deployed in the region. All relevant departments, including Energy, Health, and Water Resources, have been consulted to address scenarios such as power outages, medicine availability, anti-venom injections, potential waterlogging, and rising river levels.
Fishermen have already returned to shore, and fishing activities have been prohibited from October 27 to 31. Residents in high-altitude areas of Gajapati, such as Mahendragiri, are being relocated to safer, lower-lying locations.
Collectors must ensure complete evacuation of individuals from high-risk zones to cyclone and flood shelters, as well as to schools and community centers, by 5 p.m. tomorrow.
As of now, 128 teams from ODRAF, NDRF, and Fire Services have been deployed across eight districts. Collectors have been instructed to finalize the evacuation of people from at-risk areas to safe shelters by 5 p.m. tomorrow.
District administrations have been ordered to take stringent action against the black marketing of essential goods. The government has canceled leave for all employees in cyclone-prone districts and has mandated the closure of all educational institutions.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the state's proactive approach in disaster management. By ensuring readiness across all districts, the government demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding lives and property. This serves as a vital reminder of the importance of preparedness in the face of natural calamities.
NationPress
26/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas in Odisha are most at risk from Cyclone Montha?
The eight districts that have been categorized as Red Zone and are most at risk include Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Ganjam, Gajapati, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, and Nabarangpur.
What precautions are being taken by the government?
The government has instructed all 30 districts to prepare for any eventualities, has deployed emergency response teams, and implemented evacuations from vulnerable areas.
What should residents do to stay safe during the cyclone?
Residents in high-risk areas should evacuate to designated cyclone shelters and follow guidelines issued by local authorities.
When is the cyclone expected to make landfall?
Cyclone Montha is projected to make landfall on the Andhra Pradesh coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam around the evening or night of October 28.
Are there any travel restrictions due to the cyclone?
Yes, fishing activities have been banned from October 27 to 31, and travel may be restricted in affected areas for safety reasons.
