Brahmapur (Pratiphalan Media )
625 People Shifted to Shelters, 1,212 Pregnant Women Hospitalized for Safety Ganjam district administration has been placed on high alert due to the impending impact of Cyclone Montha. District Collector V. Keerti Vasan is personally visiting various areas to review preparedness measures. He has been holding continuous review meetings and field inspections to ensure all departments are ready to handle the situation.
During his visit to MKCG Medical College and Hospital, the Collector assessed the arrangements and instructed officials to set up a dedicated control room at the hospital. He emphasized that no patient should be deprived of timely medical care. All departments have been directed to remain on high alert, and necessary steps have been taken to ensure smooth drainage of rainwater during heavy showers.
The administration has begun relocating people from low-lying and vulnerable areas to safer locations. The Collector stated that all evacuations would be completed by evening. He also visited cyclone shelters in Gopalpur to check facilities and instructed that generators and essential supplies be kept ready.
The district helpline numbers have been issued for public assistance —District Emergency Control Room: 06811-263978 and Toll-Free No. 1077
For Berhampur Municipal Corporation area: 9437268611
While the impact of Cyclone Montha remains minimal at Gopalpur, the beach saw a large number of tourists, despite warnings. Police patrolling continues, but many visitors are reportedly not following safety advisories. Meanwhile, 28 fishing trawlers from Andhra Pradesh have been stranded near Aryapalli coast due to strong sea currents. The district administration has arranged safe anchorage near Gopalpur Port for their protection.
By 4 p.m., 625 people had been shifted to cyclone shelters, and 1,212 pregnant women were moved to medical facilities for safety and monitoring. Evening reports indicate rough sea conditions with strong winds and light rain. The administration is maintaining strict vigilance. Although the cyclone’s path currently points toward Andhra Pradesh, officials have stated that if it changes course, Ganjam and Gajapati districts could be affected. The administration affirmed that it is fully prepared to handle any eventuality.