Bhubaneswar: As Cyclone Montha nears the Andhra Pradesh coast, southern Odisha is facing strong winds and heavy rain, causing trees to fall and landslides in several districts. According to Sudhansu Sarangi, Director General of Fire Services & CG, 28 areas have been affected so far.
Gajapati district is the worst hit, especially in R. Udayagiri, Paralakhemundi, and Guma, where major tree falls and landslides have occurred.
In Ganjam district, heavy rain in Chikiti and Patrapur has also caused similar problems. Anagan, near R. Udayagiri, has been affected too. Restoration teams have reached these areas and started recovery work.
In Puri district, water levels have risen in two areas, creating flood-like conditions. Bhubaneswar is mostly safe. Eight dewatering pumps have been set up in vulnerable spots to control flooding.
The IMD expects Cyclone Montha to hit land in the next 2–3 hours. Officials hope rainfall in Gajapati will reduce tomorrow, helping recovery efforts.
A total of 130 Fire Services teams have been deployed across southern Odisha. Southern Fire Officer Bichitra Kumar Panda is stationed in Jeypore, while Chief Fire Officer Ramesh Chandra Majhi is overseeing operations from Brahmapur. A 24/7 control room in Bhubaneswar is managing complaints and coordinating relief work.
“So far, we have received 28 calls. Restoration work has been completed at 22 sites, while efforts are underway at the remaining locations. The work is expected to be completed by tonight. No casualties have been reported so far,” Sarangi stated.
