Officials in both Srikakulam and Vizianagaram districts are actively preparing to mitigate potential damage from Cyclone Montha, which is predicted to make landfall near the Kakinada coast by the night of October 28, 2025.
This time, authorities are leaving nothing to chance, mindful of the extensive devastation caused by previous cyclones like Hud-Hud and Titli. Srikakulam district, with its 185-kilometer coastline stretching from Pydibhimavaram to Ichachapuram, has historically experienced severe impacts from cyclones, even when they cross the coast at distant locations such as Kakinada and Visakhapatnam.
To facilitate immediate response and continuous oversight, a dedicated control room has been established in the Srikakulam Collector’s office. This center will closely monitor vulnerable areas, including Palasa, Sompeta, Santabommali, Kotabommali, and other parts of the Uddanam region, which is rich in cashew and coconut groves. Srikakulam in-charge Collector Farman Ahmed Khan convened a teleconference with all relevant officials, emphasizing the need for seamless coordination to effectively manage the impending crisis.
Mr. Khan issued a strong advisory to fishermen, urging them to avoid venturing into the sea for the upcoming week due to the anticipated rough conditions brought on by the cyclone. He further instructed irrigation officials to diligently monitor water inflows into major rivers such as Vamsadhara and Nagavali, anticipating potential flooding—a significant concern following a cyclone. Additionally, he directed officials to expedite the evacuation of residents from low-lying areas to designated safe zones.
Similarly, Vizianagaram Collector S. Ramsundar Reddy organized a meeting with concerned departments to devise preventive strategies and minimize cyclone-related damage. He specifically alerted officials in Bhogapuram and Pusapatirega mandals, highlighting that over 50 villages in these regions are situated perilously close to the sea. Agriculture officials were also tasked with informing farmers about necessary measures to safeguard their standing crops from the storm’s impact.