Cyclone Montha: Andhra Pradesh and Odisha Brace for Impact

Severe Cyclonic Storm (SCS) Montha commenced its landfall process on Tuesday evening, striking the Andhra Pradesh coast near Kakinada. The storm is projected to sweep through the region with wind speeds between 90-100 kmph, potentially gusting to 110 kmph, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported.

In anticipation of Montha's fury, Odisha has evacuated over 11,000 residents, with plans to relocate a total of 30,000 people from vulnerable areas. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi highlighted the preparedness of the state, particularly in South Odisha's eight districts which are expected to suffer the brunt of the storm. "Our aim remains zero casualties," he stated, as he detailed emergency measures including the deployment of disaster response teams and preparation of shelter sites.

National and state emergency services are in full swing, with the Indian Railways cancelling 32 trains passing through the cyclone-affected zones. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw assured prompt restoration of rail operations post-landfall while highlighting the activation of emergency war rooms. In Andhra Pradesh, the government has set up over 800 relief centers and transported vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, to safer locations.