Amaravati, Oct 26 – A looming cyclone called Montha is set to hit the Bay of Bengal, prompting Andhra Pradesh’s authorities to launch a rapid‑response plan across six coastal districts. The government has dispatched National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams, named special officers for 19 districts, and shut all beach and coastal tourism activities.
Rapid‑response teams on standby
Prakhar Jain, Managing Director of the Andhra Pradesh Disaster Management Authority, announced that eight NDRF squads and nine SDRF squads have been mobilised. NDRF’s 10th Battalion from Krishna district is already moving into PSR Nellore, Srikakulam, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Konaseema and Kakinada. Meanwhile, SDRF units are stationed in West Godavari and Krishna districts to handle rescue and relief operations.
Beach closures and travel warnings
Because sea conditions are rough and waves could strike the shore, fishing and boat activities on all seashores have been suspended. Visitors are also barred from beaches, a move that includes canceling “Kartik snan” festivities at Uppada Beach Road in Kakinada. The Disaster Management Authority warns residents not to travel between Oct 26 and Oct 29.
Expected storm path and intensity
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts the depression will intensify into a cyclonic storm and strike the Andhra coast near Kakinada on Tuesday night. King‑pin winds are expected to reach 90–100 km/h, gusting up to 110 km/h. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely along the coast on Monday and Tuesday, with totals up to 100 mm in places from Srikakulam to Tirupati.
CM Naidu’s emergency alert
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu called a teleconference with district collectors and police superintendents to discuss readiness. He told officials that schools could shut early and that “hospital on wheels” should be prepared in Kakinada. He also directed the deployment of NDRF and SDRF teams to vulnerable districts and urged collectors to develop relief plans for each district.
Coordination and control rooms
Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand issued orders naming special officers for 19 districts. These officers will coordinate relief and rehabilitation efforts with district administrations. Three regional coordination officers have been appointed to oversee the state: Senior IAS officer Ajay Jain will lead the Srikakulam‑Konaseema zone, while R.P. Sisodia will manage West Godavari to Prakasam. Each officer will set up cyclone control rooms with district collectors to streamline emergency response.
Bottom line
Andhra Pradesh’s authorities are on high alert as Cyclone Montha nears. With NDRF and SDRF teams ready, beach closures enforced, and a strong warning from the CM, residents are urged to stay informed, avoid travel, and follow local evacuation orders. The government’s quick mobilisation and coordination aim to minimise damage and protect lives as the storm is expected to make landfall near Kakinada Tuesday night.
Source: ianslive
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