Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Government has ordered a three-day closure of all schools in eight districts as a precautionary measure ahead of Cyclone Montha, expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds from October 28 to 30, 2025.
A notification issued by Dr. N. Thirumala Naik, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the School and Mass Education Department, stated that all government, government-aided, and private schools in Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, and Nabarangpur will remain shut.
District Education Officers (DEOs) have been designated as Nodal Officers to coordinate with district administrations on cyclone preparedness and response. All leaves of department employees have been canceled, with staff instructed to remain available for relief and rehabilitation work. School buildings may be used as temporary shelters if required.
The department has also advised that school equipment and furniture be secured and that power connections in classrooms be switched off during the storm to prevent accidents. Midday meal rice (PM POSHAN) may be used for relief operations, with the stock replenished later by the Office of the Relief Commissioner.
A 24×7 control room has been set up at the department, supervised by Additional Secretary Gundai Hansdah (Mobile: 8018765256), to coordinate with district officials and provide support.
Officials and staff have been urged to remain alert to ensure the safety of students, school infrastructure, and the public during and after the cyclone.
