Power supply restoration, cyclone Montha relief, crop loss compensation plans in place: Odisha Deputy CM

Odisha Government is fully prepared to tackle the approaching cyclone Montha, Deputy Chief Minister K.V. Singh Deo said on Tuesday. He stated that the Energy Department has made necessary arrangements to restore electricity soon in case of any damage to electric poles or power lines.

Also Read: Odisha farmers fear cyclone ‘Montha’ could wipe out months of hard work

Wires, transformers, and electric poles have been pre-positioned across nine districts, which are likely to be affected by the cyclonic storm. The government has assured that the electricity supply will be restored within 48 hours after the cyclone subsides.

Highlighting the ongoing paddy harvesting season, Singh Deo noted that heavy rain may cause crop damage. District Collectors have been directed to submit immediate reports on agricultural losses across cyclone-affected districts.

Recalling past relief operations, he said compensation was disbursed within seven days after previous disasters and that similar prompt measures would be taken this time as well. The Deputy CM reaffirmed that the State government’s preparedness covers both infrastructure recovery and farmer assistance to minimise cyclone impact.

“Main challenge before us is, the paddy crop has already ripened and is in the farmlands. There is a chance that the plants might rot if they collapse on the ground due to heavy rainfall and gusting winds. District Collectors have been instructed to submit their crop loss assessment reports to the State government after the cyclone subsides,” the Deputy CM said.

“During previous cyclone ‘Dana’, for the first time, crop loss compensation money was sent to the bank accounts of affected farmers within seven days through DBT (direct benefit transfer). We will follow the same method this time,” the Deputy CM stated.

“However, the State government and district administrations are fully prepared to face the challenges,” Deputy CM Singh Deo expressed while speaking to mediapersons.