Cyclone ‘Montha’: Odisha on high alert, stern warning issued against hoarding & black marketing

The Odisha government has stepped up preparedness as Cyclone ‘Montha’ approaches, with rescue teams deployed across vulnerable districts. Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari conducted a high-level review meeting on Sunday at the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) office, assessing readiness measures in potentially affected regions.

The Minister said the cyclone is likely to make landfall in Andhra Pradesh, but its impact may extend to southern Odisha. Eight districts — Malkangiri, Nabarangpur, Koraput, Rayagada, Gajapati, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, and Ganjam — have been placed under the Red Zone, with forecasts of heavy rainfall and strong winds. Other districts including Khordha, Puri, Nayagarh, Bhadrak, Kendrapara, and Jagatsinghpur may also face adverse weather conditions.

“The government is fully prepared to tackle any eventuality arising out of the situation,” Minister Pujari assured.

Rescue Teams Deployed

In Malkangiri, considered one of the most vulnerable districts, three ODRAF teams, eight fire service units, and one NDRF team — a total of 12 teams — have been deployed.

In Koraput, three ODRAF, one NDRF, and 14 fire service teams (18 teams in total) have been positioned, while Nabarangpur has received three ODRAF and ten fire service teams ready for immediate response.

Also Read: Cyclone Montha to bring heavy rain, red warning for 5 Odisha districts

“Malkangiri is likely to be the most affected district in the impending cyclone. Adjacent Koraput and Nabarangpur are also likely to experience severe impact,” the Minister said. “We have reviewed preparedness in Gajapati, Ganjam, Kandhamal, and Kalahandi, while other districts like Khordha, Puri, Nayagarh, Bhadrak, Kendrapara, and Jagatsinghpur are also on alert.”

Warning Against Black Marketing

Issuing a strict warning, the Minister said, “If anybody tries to take advantage of this critical situation by hoarding essential commodities or indulging in black marketing, stern and exemplary action will be taken.”

He added that the district administrations have been instructed to ensure public safety. “Hotel owners have been directed not to allow tourists to venture outside, especially near sea shores, during the next four days,” Pujari stated.

With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting further intensification of the system, the state machinery remains on high alert to mitigate risks and ensure rapid response during any eventuality.