As Cyclone Montha steadily approaches the Andhra Pradesh coast, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has issued stringent directives for officials to provide hourly bulletins and real-time updates. Emphasizing the state government’s unwavering commitment, he declared that the foremost priority is to protect lives and minimize any potential property damage, ensuring the public is informed every step of the way.
On Monday, October 27, Mr. Naidu conducted a crucial high-level review meeting from the Secretariat’s RTGS Command Centre. The discussions focused intensely on assessing the impending impact of Cyclone Montha and reinforcing the state’s preparedness strategies. In a significant development, the Chief Minister also engaged in a telephonic conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the cyclone situation.
During their call, Prime Minister Modi personally sought updates on the cyclone’s anticipated impact and Andhra Pradesh’s readiness. He extended the Centre’s full assurance of unwavering support and cooperation to help the state effectively manage the crisis. In response, Chief Minister Naidu appointed Minister Nara Lokesh to directly coordinate with the Prime Minister’s Office, aiming to streamline all relief and rehabilitation efforts.
A critical directive from the Chief Minister during the review was to maintain an uninterrupted flow of information and robust communication networks. To achieve this, he mandated the deployment of satellite phones and additional mobile towers. Furthermore, officials were instructed to prepare 3,211 generators across 110 mandals, guaranteeing power backup for 2,707 village and ward secretariats located in cyclone-vulnerable areas.
Highlighting the government’s paramount objective, Mr. Naidu underscored that preventing any loss of life is the absolute priority. He ordered the immediate evacuation of coastal residents to designated relief camps, ensuring each displaced family receives 25 kg of rice along with other essential commodities.
Security personnel vigilantly patroling the Kothapatnam seashore in Prakasam district on Monday, October 27.
Urgent Relief and Safety Measures Initiated
The Chief Minister has ordered that NDRF and SDRF teams be kept on high alert and full standby. He also ensured that the Fire Services, Electricity, Roads and Buildings, and Panchayat Raj departments are fully prepared. Officials received directives for rapid infrastructure restoration, including addressing road damage, clearing fallen trees, and repairing power lines. Post-cyclone, sanitation is a top priority to avert disease outbreaks. Medical services are bolstered with 108 and 104 emergency vehicles on standby, specifically ensuring care for pregnant women and new mothers. Hospitals are also instructed to maintain adequate stocks of anti-snake venom and anti-rabies vaccines.
Cyclone Montha’s Current Trajectory and Expected Landfall
Briefing the Chief Minister, officials reported that Cyclone Montha is currently positioned 680 km southeast of Kakinada, advancing towards the coast at 16 km per hour. Forecasts indicate heavy to very heavy rainfall in Krishna district, with substantial precipitation also expected in Guntur, Bapatla, NTR, Palnadu, and West Godavari districts. The cyclone is anticipated to make landfall by Tuesday night. Mr. Naidu mandated the strategic deployment of 851 JCBs and 757 power saws across vulnerable areas, emphasizing the importance of thorough mapping and post-cyclone assessments. He also directed that all reservoirs, tanks, and drainage systems be meticulously maintained to ensure efficient floodwater discharge.
Visakhapatnam witnesses high tidal waves and rains on Monday, October 27, under the influence of Cyclone Montha, which is expected to make landfall near Kakinada on October 28.
Issuing a stern warning against any laxity, the Chief Minister declared, “Any negligence in relief efforts will be met with strict action.” He stressed that lessons learned from previous cyclones such as Hudhud, Titli, and Phailin must rigorously inform and enhance the current preparedness strategy.
The crucial review meeting saw the participation of key dignitaries including HRD Minister Nara Lokesh, Home Minister Vangalapudi Anita, Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand, and other senior officials representing various government departments.