Ahead of Cyclone Montha’s landfall on the Andhra Pradesh coast, authorities have evacuated over 9,700 residents, mostly fisherfolk, from 67 villages across 12 coastal Mandals along the Kakinada coastline. Relief operations are in full swing to prevent casualties and damage.
Evacuation and Preparedness Efforts
In a relief update, Kakinada District Collector S. Shan Mohan stated:
“Above 14 lakh people are expected to be affected along the Kakinada coast. 104 personnel from the NDRF and SDRF are actively engaged in relief operations.”
Authorities have readied three helipads for emergency airlifting and deployed 200 trained swimmers along with 140 boats to assist in rescue and relief efforts.
High Alert Along Kakinada Coast
The Kakinada-Uppada-Thondangi stretch has been flagged as highly vulnerable to coastal erosion. Citizens are urged to stay in safe evacuation shelters until the cyclone passes.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for 16 districts in Andhra Pradesh, warning of winds reaching 110 km/h accompanied by heavy rainfall.
Government Response and Zero-Casualty Plan
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has directed all officials to maintain zero-casualty preparedness, with continuous monitoring of the cyclone and relief operations. Local authorities continue to coordinate with NDRF, SDRF, and district administration to ensure timely evacuation and aid distribution.
Preparations at Kauda beach and other vulnerable locations are ongoing, with relief teams working round the clock to safeguard residents and minimize property damage.
