Bhubaneswar, Oct 25 (UNI) The Odisha government today put the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), and fire services on high alert in view of the cyclonic storm ‘Montha’, which is likely to affect several districts in the state.
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, along with Special Relief Commissioner Deoranjan Kumar Singh, chaired a high-level meeting with District Collectors of the potentially affected areas to review pre-cyclone preparedness.
Quoting information from the Bhubaneswar regional office of the Indian Meteorological Department, Pujari said the depression over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a deep cyclonic depression.
While its exact path remains uncertain, its intensity is increasing, and heavy rainfall is expected in southern and coastal districts of Odisha on October 27, 28, and 29.
The Minister said up to 15 districts could be affected and assured that the government has taken all necessary precautionary measures based on past experiences and the current situation.
He added that the NDRF, ODRAF, and fire services have been put on alert.
In coordination with the Agriculture, Water Resources, Energy, Panchayati Raj, Health, Cooperative, Rural Development, and Animal Husbandry departments, the government is maintaining full preparedness.
Low-lying and waterlogged areas have been identified, and cyclone shelters have been readied with stocks of food, drinking water, fodder, essential medicines, and other necessities. People will be relocated to these shelters if required.
Pujari emphasized that the government is prioritizing both lives and property, with vigilance also being maintained over landslides and urban flooding. Immediate relief has been provided to those affected by previous rains.
He advised the public to stay informed through official channels and not to panic.
Special Relief Commissioner Singh urged citizens to take official cyclone-related updates seriously and assured that the government will continuously provide timely information and guidance.
