Bhubaneswar, Oct 27: As Cyclone Montha intensifies and moves toward the Andhra coast, Odisha has launched a comprehensive disaster response plan across eight red-alert districts.

The cyclone, currently located 600 km from Gopalpur, is expected to cross through Malkangiri and move into Chhattisgarh, impacting districts like Ganjam, Gajapati, Koraput, Kalahandi, and Nabarangpur.

In anticipation of the storm’s impact, the state government has declared school holidays on October 28, 29, and 30 in the affected districts. Over 200 cyclone shelters have been readied, and 200 pregnant women have already been relocated to safer facilities. All pregnant women in vulnerable areas have been instructed to shift immediately.

Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari confirmed that preparations have been completed from the panchayat to the state level. Government officials, Anganwadi workers, and ASHA volunteers are actively engaged in ensuring public safety. The cyclone’s speed has increased to 18 kmph, which experts say may reduce its destructive impact — a hopeful sign for the region.

Also read: Odisha Government Maps 139 Landslide Zones in Gajapati District

District administrations have taken proactive steps, including cancelling leave for all government employees until October 30. Seven senior OAS officers have been appointed as nodal officers across seven blocks in Gajapati district. So far, 940 people have been relocated, and the process is expected to be completed by this evening.

Dry food stocks have been secured, and cooked meals will be provided where necessary. Eight fire service teams are on standby, with eight more and one ODRAF and NDRF team en route to Gajapati. Due to landslide risks in several areas, JCBs have been deployed for emergency clearance.

To protect children, all schools and colleges in the district will remain closed until October 30. Tourist spots have also been shut to ensure visitor safety. With 139 landslide-prone zones identified, local residents are being urged via loudspeakers to move to safer locations.

The administration has set up 24x7 helplines and control rooms, and pumping operations are underway in urban areas to prevent waterlogging. Adequate supplies of ration, cattle feed, and backup power have been arranged to support affected communities.