Cyclone Montha's effects are beginning to be felt in several parts of Odisha, especially along the Gopalpur coast in Ganjam district, as it intensifies into a strong cyclonic storm and approaches landfall close to Kakinada. According to reports, the sea near the Ganjam shoreline has been getting rougher since Monday morning, and by Tuesday, things had gotten even worse.
The local government has been put on high alert due to the severe weather conditions. Nearly 2,400 people have been moved from places that were vulnerable to landslides during past cyclones, primarily Chikiti and Patrapur. In order to protect the residents, the evacuation lasted all night Monday. According to reports, crews from the Fire Department, NDRF, and ODRF have been kept fully prepared to handle any incident.
Public Transit Is Limited Along the Coast
According to reports, as a precaution, severe recommendations have been issued that forbid public access to the sea beach for three days. Authorities have restricted visitor access to the coastal area due to the increasing strength of the waves and their proximity to the shore.
Shops and hotels in the surrounding neighbourhoods have been temporarily closed, and police officers have been stationed at entry points to prevent unlawful access. According to accounts, local tourists have been told not to go to the beach.
Pervasive Rain and Agricultural Issues
Reports state that Cyclone Montha's effects are now being felt in all 22 blocks of Ganjam district.
There is a gentle drizzle in some places and a lot of rain in others. Due to the possibility of crop damage from the persistent rain and strong gusts, vegetable farmers are among the most severely impacted.
Close Monitoring of Health and Power Systems
The district administration is reportedly keeping a careful eye on things to avoid power outages and make sure medical facilities are unaffected. Residents have been urged to remain indoors unless absolutely essential, and ambulances have been stationed on standby in strategic locations.
Responses from Visitors
We came here with the whole family, and the beach looks deserted," one of the visitors remarked.
Since access to the beach is prohibited, all of our intentions were thwarted. Since all of the hotels are closed and the prices have increased significantly, we are also having issues with the cuisine."
A young tourist remarked, "We are not permitted to enter the sea beach or take a bath, ruining our entire tour.
The Ganjam local government is keeping a tight eye on the situation as the cyclone approaches landfall and is being extra prepared to save lives and limit damage.