Why Are Schools in 8 Odisha Districts Closing Due to Cyclone ‘Montha’?
Synopsis
As Cyclone ‘Montha’ approaches, the Odisha Government takes proactive measures by closing schools in eight districts for three days. This decision aims to ensure the safety of students and staff amidst heavy rainfall. Read on to discover the details of this precautionary action and how it impacts the community.
Key Takeaways
Schools in eight districts will close from October 28 to 30.
Safety of students and staff is the priority during Cyclone ‘Montha’.
District administrations to coordinate relief efforts.
DEOs will oversee and report on damages post-cyclone.
Electricity in schools to be turned off for safety.
Bhubaneswar, Oct 27 (NationPress) The Government of Odisha's School and Mass Education Department has declared a temporary closure of all educational institutions across eight southern districts from October 28 to 30, due to the anticipated arrival of Cyclone ‘Montha’ and the significant rainfall it is expected to bring.
In a formal communication from N. Thirumala Naik, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the School and Mass Education Department, it was stated that all government, government-aided, and private educational institutions in the districts of Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, and Nabarangpur will be closed for a period of three days as a safety precaution.
Additionally, the letter emphasizes that district authorities may assign teachers and staff to assist with cyclone management and relief efforts as needed. The department has also designated District Education Officers (DEOs) as Nodal Officers to collaborate with district administrations on cyclone preparedness.
Moreover, all employees within the department in these regions will have their leaves canceled until further notice. School facilities may also be utilized as shelters by the district administrations, if necessary.
The communication instructed that DEOs remain in contact with state-level directors for prompt decision-making and coordination. Officials at the ground level have been directed to ensure that the electricity in classrooms and other school facilities is turned off for safety.
Following the cyclone's passage, school authorities are tasked with ensuring the restoration and proper management of educational resources. Should there be any damage to school property, headmasters are required to evaluate and report it to the DEO, who will subsequently inform the District Collector and relevant departmental directors of any losses.
The School and Mass Education Department also advised that rice allocated under the PM POSHAN (Mid-Day Meal) scheme can be redirected for relief efforts if necessary, with reimbursement from the Special Relief Commissioner’s office anticipated later.
Furthermore, the department has mandated that all directorates maintain 24-hour control rooms and liaise closely with DEOs. A state-level control room will also be operational around the clock.
Officials and field personnel have been urged to stay vigilant and prepared at the district level to guarantee effective execution of safety and relief strategies during and after the cyclone.
Point of View
The precautionary closure of schools in Odisha demonstrates a responsible approach by the government to prioritize safety during natural disasters. It reflects the need for preparedness in the face of climate challenges, ensuring that both students and staff are protected while also enabling necessary relief operations. Such measures should inspire similar proactive actions across the country.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are schools closing in Odisha?
Schools are closing as a precautionary measure due to the expected impact of Cyclone ‘Montha’ and the associated heavy rainfall.
Which districts are affected by the school closures?
The affected districts are Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, and Nabarangpur.
How long will the schools remain closed?
Schools will be closed from October 28 to 30.
What measures are being taken by the government?
The government has instructed that teachers may assist in relief operations and has set up 24-hour control rooms for coordination.
Will school property be used during the cyclone?
Yes, school buildings may be utilized as shelters if necessary.
