CM Majhi Reviews Odisha’s Cyclone Montha Preparedness, Stresses ‘Zero Casualties’ Goal

Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday reviewed Odisha’s preparedness for Cyclone Montha at Lok Seva Bhawan, directing officials to ensure that “zero casualties” remain the top priority as the storm approaches.

Though the cyclone is currently impacting Andhra Pradesh, heavy rain and strong winds are expected in several southern districts of Odisha. The Chief Minister emphasized that no resident should be left behind in danger zones, urging authorities to evacuate all vulnerable people to cyclone and flood shelters or other safe locations.

Recalling the state’s success during last year’s Cyclone Dana, when timely evacuation led to zero casualties, Majhi underscored that evacuation remains the most crucial strategy in minimizing loss of life.

All departments have been instructed to remain on high alert to restore essential services immediately after the cyclone and prevent road blockages caused by uprooted trees. The Agriculture Department has been directed to assess crop damage promptly and ensure timely assistance to farmers amid the ongoing harvest season.

Under Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari, review meetings have been held over the past three days to strengthen disaster preparedness. The Chief Minister also urged Divisional Secretaries and District Collectors to closely monitor field-level arrangements.

Special Relief Commissioner Deoranjan Kumar Singh, DGP Yogesh Bahadur Khurania, and senior officials from various departments briefed the Chief Minister on preparedness measures.

According to reports, eight districts are likely to be most affected — Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, and Nabarangpur. So far, 11,396 people have been evacuated, while another 30,554 remain on standby for relocation. Additionally, 2,693 pregnant women are being shifted to health centers for safety.

To manage the situation, 30 ODRAF teams, 5 NDRF teams, and 123 Fire Service squads have been deployed, with additional units kept on alert. Schools and Anganwadi centers in the affected districts will remain closed until October 30, with possible extensions depending on the situation.

Departments have also ensured uninterrupted power and drinking water supply, with DG sets installed at essential service institutions. Health centers have been stocked with adequate medicines, anti-snake venom serum, and emergency treatment kits.

Tourist movement has been banned in coastal and hilly regions until October 31, and fishermen have been warned against venturing into the sea.

The meeting was attended by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary Anu Garg, Additional Chief Secretaries Deoranjan Kumar Singh and Satyabrata Sahu, DGP Yogesh Bahadur Khurania, and other senior officials. District Collectors participated virtually.