Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has ramped up its preparations ahead of Cyclone Montha, with Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari chairing a high-level meeting at the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) office today.
The meeting, attended by key officials from various departments, reviewed the state’s readiness to tackle the cyclone’s impact.
The government has emphasized its commitment to ensuring zero casualties, with Minister Pujari stating that all necessary preparations have been completed. “We have made all preparations and are closely monitoring the situation. I urge everyone to remain calm and cooperate with the authorities,” stated Pujari.
He further said, “As of now, the cyclone is moving at a speed of 18 kmph, with its trajectory expected to bring it closer to the coast. As the cyclone’s speed increases, its impact may decrease, which is a positive sign. The cyclone is currently 600 km away from Gopalpur and is expected to make landfall before moving through Malkangiri and into Chhattisgarh.”
He continued: “The cyclone is likely to affect several districts, including Ganjam, Gajapati, Koraput, Kalahandi, and Nabarangpur. Heavy rainfall is expected in Chhattisgarh, which may lead to an influx of water into the Mahanadi river. The government has begun releasing water from reservoirs, which are currently at 88% capacity. Fishermen have been advised to return to shore, and all necessary measures are being taken to ensure public safety.”
He stated that the government has completed preparations at all levels, from district to block to panchayat administration. Officials, Anganwadi workers, and ASHA workers are reaching out to people in vulnerable areas. The government is confident of effectively managing the situation, drawing on past experiences such as the successful handling of Cyclone Dana.
Pujari has stated that the SRC will hold discussions with the Coast Guard today. It is reported that people from Andhra Pradesh are in the Odisha sea. Discussions with the Coast Guard will focus on the number of ships arriving from there. The goal is to successfully manage the cyclone with zero casualties. Do not leave your homes during the cyclone. As many as 200 pregnant women have been relocated, and more will be moved. People in hilly areas have been asked to move to lower areas. Those in makeshift houses should move to nearby shelters or schools. Ensure the safety of the elderly, women, and children. A 24/7 helpline number has been issued. The control room is operational. The evacuation process has begun. People are working to secure their belongings. Those in vulnerable areas or at risk of flooding should move to relief centres.
“During the cyclone, winds will blow at speeds of 60 to 90 kilometers per hour. As many as 200 relief centers have been set up in eight districts. Schools will also be used as shelters. Schools and Anganwadi centres in these 8 districts will remain closed from the October 28 to October 30. Dry food will be delivered to the homes of Anganwadi beneficiaries. In urban areas where there is a risk of waterlogging, pumping has been instructed to prevent water from entering homes. Sufficient stocks of rations, food supplies, and animal feed are available. Power backup arrangements have also been made”, stated Pujari about the government preparation to tackle the cyclone.
