Puri, Oct 26: Amid the looming threat of Cyclone Montha brewing over the Bay of Bengal, the Puri district administration has issued a public advisory urging residents and tourists to exercise caution and avoid coastal activities.

According to the advisory, visitors have been asked not to venture into sea from October 27, 28, and 29.

The decision comes as part of precautionary measures taken to protect tourists and locals from potential hazards due to rough sea conditions.

Authorities have warned that anyone violating the ban and entering the sea will face strict legal action.

The administration has also deployed additional personnel along the coastline to enforce the restrictions and guide visitors away from dangerous zones.

Also read: Cyclone Montha Intensifies Over Bay of Bengal, 970 km From Gopalpur

Tourists are advised to follow official instructions and avoid venturing into the sea during this period.

This move aligns with broader disaster preparedness efforts as meteorological agencies continue to monitor the evolving weather system in the Bay of Bengal.

An emergency virtual meeting was held on Friday evening under the chairmanship of District Collector.

Although current forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) suggest that the cyclone may not make landfall in Odisha, heavy rainfall is expected across the region.

The Collector emphasized the need for heightened vigilance and instructed all departments to operate in full coordination.

Key Directives from the Meeting:
- Leave Cancelled: All government officials and employees in the district will remain on duty until October 30. No leave will be granted during this period.
- Evacuation Plans: Block Development Officers (BDOs) and Tehsildars have been directed to identify low-lying and flood-prone areas and prepare for possible evacuations.
- Shelter Readiness: Cyclone shelters must be made fully functional and ready to accommodate displaced residents, especially those living in vulnerable structures like mud houses and thatched roofs.
- Essential Supplies: Departments have been instructed to stockpile polythene sheets, food items, medicines, and cattle feed.
- Rapid Response: Fire services have been placed on alert to clear fallen trees and blocked roads and assist in flood rescue operations if needed.
- Community Coordination: Public representatives, volunteers, and government staff have been urged to work in close coordination to ensure smooth disaster response.
Additional District Magistrate Sharata Chandra Behera provided updates and shared guidance from the State Disaster Management Authority. Officials from various departments participated in the meeting and pledged full cooperation.
The Collector also appealed to the public to remain alert and informed, avoid panic, and follow official advisories during this critical period