Bhubaneswar, Oct 26, 2025 , SKY LINK TIMES
The Odisha government has gone on high alert as Cyclone Montha approaches the Bay of Bengal, with authorities mobilizing disaster response teams and tightening preparedness measures across coastal and southern districts.
State Administration Cancels Leaves, Activates Disaster Response
All government employees in Balasore district have had their leaves cancelled, while officials in Ganjam district have been directed to remain at their headquarters until further orders.
Chief Secretary Pradeep Kumar Jena held an emergency review meeting with district collectors and directed them to ensure round-the-clock monitoring and coordination with local bodies and control rooms.
The Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and fire services teams have been put on standby for immediate deployment in vulnerable areas.
Cyclone Montha Expected to Strengthen Further
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the low-pressure system over the southwest Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a deep depression by Sunday and further into a cyclonic storm by Monday morning.
The system is forecast to strengthen into a severe cyclonic storm by Tuesday morning and make landfall between Machilipatnam (Andhra Pradesh) and Kalingapatnam (Odisha) by Tuesday evening or night.
Wind speeds are expected to reach 90–100 km/h, gusting up to 110 km/h, accompanied by heavy rainfall, rough sea conditions, and potential flooding in low-lying areas.
Fishermen Warned, Evacuation Plans Ready
The Special Relief Commissioner’s office has advised fishermen not to venture into the sea and urged those already out to return immediately.
Evacuation plans have been activated in Balasore, Ganjam, Puri, and Gajapati districts, with community shelters being prepared to accommodate affected residents.
The Energy Department has also been directed to ensure uninterrupted power supply to key installations such as hospitals and water supply units.
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Government Urges Vigilance, Public Cooperation
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi appealed to citizens to remain calm but vigilant, assuring that the government is fully prepared to deal with any emergency.
“We are closely monitoring the situation and taking all necessary precautions to ensure safety of life and property,” he said.
The IMD continues to track the storm’s path and intensity, and regular bulletins are being issued to keep the public informed.
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