Cyclone Montha Triggers Landslide in Ganjam, Blocks Key Road in Paralakhemundi

The incident occurred on the Linga-Barabha road under Parttada Panchayat in Kashinagar block, where a large section of a nearby hill collapsed. Mud, debris, and boulders buried the road, cutting off access between villages and the Paralakhemundi market. This road serves as a vital link for farmers and laborers traveling to sell produce and access essential services.

Local residents reported that the landslide began early Tuesday morning, following days of relentless rain. The Regional Meteorological Centre recorded over 150 mm of rainfall in the past 48 hours, exceeding the seasonal average by 30 percent. The excessive downpour weakened the soil structure, increasing the risk of landslides in hilly terrain.

District Collector Sunanda Mohanty dispatched emergency teams from the Kashinagar block office and Paralakhemundi police station. Fire services and paramilitary forces began clearing the debris using excavators and heavy machinery. Officials expect partial restoration of the road by evening, although other vulnerable areas remain under threat.

The administration activated the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) and issued alerts to nearby villages. Relief centers have been prepared, and local representatives are assisting affected families. The state government allocated additional resources to manage Montha-related emergencies and prevent further damage.

Authorities urged residents to avoid landslide-prone zones and stay connected with local officials for updates. This incident highlights the unpredictable nature of Montha and the need for stronger disaster preparedness in southern Odisha.

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