BMC Fully Prepared to Handle Cyclone Montha Impact, Says Commissioner

Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced that the city is fully prepared to deal with any impact from Cyclone Montha, which is expected to affect Odisha’s south coast.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Khordha district, including the state capital, has been placed under a yellow warning, with forecasts of heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places. Surface wind speeds are likely to reach 50–60 kmph, with gusts up to 70 kmph.

“Urban flooding, road blockages due to fallen trees, and power disruptions are possible. To ensure safety, detailed preparations have been made, and the BMC control room is operational,” said BMC Commissioner Chanchal Rana while addressing the media.

Joint teams from BMC, Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA), IDCO, Public Works Department (PWD), Odisha Forest Development Corporation (OFDC), and TPCODL have been mobilised for tree cutting, city cleaning, and drain clearance to prevent waterlogging. Drainage and fire service teams have been pre-positioned with vehicles, machinery, and fuel on standby.

The BMC helpline (1929) is available for residents to report emergencies. Shelters, including BMC Kalyan Mandaps, BDA facilities, and schools, have been prepared with drinking water and essential amenities.

“We are fully prepared for any eventuality,” Commissioner Chanchal Rana reassured.