Bhubaneswar: Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari on Tuesday said that the Odisha government is fully prepared to deal with the impact of Cyclone ‘Montha,’ which is moving at a speed of 12 kmph and is expected to make landfall on the Andhra Pradesh coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam near Kakinada later today.
“The cyclone is slow-moving, which makes it more dangerous as it gathers moisture. After landfall, it will affect the south Odisha coast, where continuous rainfall is being reported in eight districts,” Pujari told the media.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi reviewed the preparedness measures earlier today in a meeting attended by the district collectors of the affected districts, department secretaries, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, and Development Commissioner cum Additional Chief Secretary Anu Garg. The CM reviewed arrangements and expressed satisfaction with the state’s preparedness.
Pujari said that all necessary arrangements have been made at the micro level. Evacuations have begun, and pregnant women have been shifted to safe shelters, with over 100 women safely delivering babies during this period. In case of landslides or other emergencies, contingency measures are in place.
The Indian Navy and Coast Guard are assisting in search operations at sea to ensure no fishermen are stranded. So far, no casualties have been reported, though over 40 fishermen from Andhra Pradesh who were caught in the deep sea have been rescued. Shelters and food facilities are being provided for those affected.
“All arrangements are in place and the Odisha government urges people to remain calm,” Pujari said.
