Cyclone Montha impact in Odisha: Over 19,0000 evacuated, 33 blocks and 11 urban areas affected, says Minister

Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari on Wednesday stated that 33 blocks and 11 urban areas across the state were affected by Cyclone Montha, which brushed past the Odisha coast following its landfall on Tuesday night.

During a press conference this afternoon, Minister Pujari informed that the Odisha government had made elaborate arrangements and undertaken massive precautionary measures that included evacuating over 19,000 people.

“Odisha had begun active preparedness on a war footing almost immediately after the IMD informed of an impending cyclone. Over 19,000 people, including 2,198 pregnant women, were shifted to safer locations as part of the large-scale evacuation efforts ahead of the storm’s impact,” he stated.

The Minister said the cyclone’s change in trajectory spared Odisha from severe devastation.

Assessment And Relief Operations Underway

Following a review meeting, Pujari directed district Collectors to begin damage assessment, with officials to submit reports within 72 hours. He confirmed that officers from other districts would be deployed if additional manpower was required.

“Officials have already reported damage to several houses due to strong winds and heavy rain. Polythene sheets have been distributed to affected families as temporary shelter support. Assessment of crop loss will also begin simultaneously, and compensation will be disbursed immediately upon verification,” said the Minister.

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Extent Of Cyclone Montha’s Impact On Odisha

According to reports shared by Suresh Pujari, the Gosani block in Gajapati district recorded the highest rainfall at 150 mm, while 56 blocks recorded rainfall between 50 and 100 mm. However, the state had already deployed 161 response teams during the cyclone for rescue and emergency operations.

As part of the ongoing relief efforts, 362 free kitchens have been operating across affected areas, serving cooked meals to over 18,700 people. The Minister said the government will remain on alert till October 31, as intermittent rainfall is expected to continue in some districts.