Argus News - Odisha Spared Major Cyclone Impact, 19,000 Evacuated Safely: Minister Suresh Pujari

Bhubaneswar, Oct 29: Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari on Wednesday said that the state was largely spared from the severe impact of Cyclone Montha, attributing the fortunate outcome to the blessings of Lord Jagannath.

Briefing the media, the Minister said that proactive measures ensured minimal damage and safeguarded thousands of lives despite the cyclone’s intensity.

Rainfall and Affected Areas

Minister Pujari said that the cyclone affected 33 blocks and 11 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across Odisha. Gajapati’s Goshani block recorded the highest rainfall at 150.5 mm, while Rayagada, Mohana, Patrapur (Ganjam), and Udala (Mayurbhanj) saw over 100 mm. Additionally, 56 blocks and ULBs reported rainfall between 50 to 100 mm in the past 24 hours.

Mass Evacuation and Relief Measures

Approximately 19,000 people from vulnerable and low-lying areas were evacuated to 2,164 cyclone shelters equipped with essential amenities like clean drinking water and cooked food. Free kitchens were set up at 362 locations, serving nutritious meals to 18,732 evacuees. The government also relocated 2,198 expectant mothers to health centres and Maa Gruhas, with reports of successful childbirths during the storm.

Also Read: Minimal Impact in Odisha as Montha Moves Inland, Says CM Majhi

Rescue and Damage Assessment

A record number of rescue teams were deployed, including 33 ODRAF units, five NDRF teams, and 133 fire service squads. Forest department personnel with disaster management experience supported the operations. Damage assessment will begin Thursday, with reports expected within 72 hours. Compensation will be disbursed promptly upon report submission.

Minister Pujari highlighted crop damage, especially rice, across several districts. The Agriculture, Cooperative, and Revenue departments will jointly evaluate the losses to ensure accurate compensation.

Cyclone Montha Weakens

Neanwhile, the Cyclone Montha weakened after making landfall in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday evening, prompting the Bhubaneswar Meteorological Centre to withdraw its red and orange alerts for southern Odisha. A fresh weather forecast has been issued, easing earlier concerns of severe impact in the state.