Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi led a high-level review meeting today at Lok Seva Bhawan to evaluate the state’s readiness for Cyclone Montha.
He instructed officials to ensure zero casualty and complete evacuation from all vulnerable areas.
The government mobilized 30 ODRAF teams, 5 NDRF units, and 123 fire service squads across the most affected districts. Authorities prepared 2,048 cyclone and flood shelters, relocating 11,396 people so far. They plan to shift another 30,554 individuals if conditions worsen.
To protect maternal health, the administration moved 2,693 pregnant women to nearby health centers. The Chief Minister emphasized that no one should remain in high-risk zones and directed teams to relocate every individual to safe shelters.
He also asked the Agriculture Department to assess crop damage immediately after the cyclone and provide timely support to farmers. As the harvest season continues, he stressed the need to safeguard rural livelihoods.
Engineering departments received orders to restore roads, electricity, and water supply swiftly after the cyclone passes. Emergency services have stocked essential medicines and installed backup generators at health centers.
The government announced school and Anganwadi closures in eight districts until October 30, with possible extensions. Officials advised tourists to avoid coastal and hilly areas and warned fishermen to stay away from the sea.
Reaffirming the state’s preparedness, the Chief Minister urged all departments to monitor developments closely and act promptly.
Joining the meeting were Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, Development Commissioner Anu Garg, Additional Chief Secretaries Deo Ranjan Kumar Singh and Satyabrata Sahu, and DGP Y.B. Khurania. Senior officials from various departments attended in person, while District Collectors joined virtually.
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