Cyclone Montha: Odisha announces closure of schools in 8 districts, Minister urges people to follow advisories

With Cyclone Montha approaching, the Odisha government has stepped up preparedness to mitigate its impact. Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari on Monday chaired a high-level review meeting at the office of the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) in Bhubaneswar to assess the situation and preparedness.

The Development Commissioner, SRC, and senior officials from various departments were present, while Collectors of vulnerable districts joined through video conferencing.

The Revenue Minister directed all departments to remain on high alert and ensure effective coordination across district, block, and panchayat levels. He emphasised that the Odisha government aims for “zero casualties” and instructed officials to prioritise evacuation from low-lying and landslide-prone regions, reportedly. 

“All departments and local administrations are fully prepared. From top-level officials to ASHA workers, everyone is working together to ensure people’s safety,” said Minister Pujari.

Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari on Cyclone Montha Preparedness

“In the review meeting, principal secretaries of various departments informed us about their readiness at the district level. The state government, along with district, block, and panchayat administrations, is fully prepared. From senior officials to ASHA workers, everyone is working together for public safety.”

“During Cyclone Dana, ASHA workers, ODRF, NDRF, and other response teams showed great dedication and saved many lives. This time too, we are fully prepared.”

“Earlier, the cyclone was 1,000 kilometres away from the coastline. Now it is moving at a speed of 18 kmph and is around 600 kilometres away from Gopalpur. Weather experts say that since the speed has increased, the impact may be less severe.”

“The cyclone will pass through Malkangiri and move towards Chhattisgarh. If it rains heavily there, the Mahanadi water level may rise. Water has been released from reservoirs as a precaution.”

“People are requested to follow advisories and not panic. Rain has already started in Malkangiri, Gajapati, and Ganjam. The rainfall will intensify as the cyclone gets closer.”

“Pregnant women are being shifted to safe places. Others will also be relocated as needed. People in kutcha houses or near hilltops should move to cyclone shelters or schools.”

“Evacuation has started, with special focus on expectant mothers. Around 200 relief centres and schools are ready in the eight affected districts. Police will stay on high alert. Anyone in danger zones should move to safer places. The control room will remain open 24 hours for assistance.”

Departments On Alert

SRC Deoranjan Singh informed that all schools and Anganwadi centres in the eight districts, Malkangiri, Nabarangpur, Koraput, Rayagada, Gajapati, Ganjam, Kalahandi, and Kandhamal, which are likely to bear the brunt of the upcoming cyclone, till October 30. All official leave of government employees in these districts has been cancelled.

He further said, "Energy Department’s Principal Secretary stated that electricity supply is unlikely to be affected if the cyclone’s intensity remains moderate, but restoration plans are in place to resume power within 24 hours if required. All Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and Community Health Centres (CHCs) have been stocked with essential medicines and anti-venom doses."

The Minister also said that preparations have been made to safeguard animal life, with adequate supplies of cattle feed and rations. Doctors and paramedical staff have been placed on standby.