As severe cyclonic storm ‘Montha’ approaches the east coast, Union Minister for Railways, Communications, and Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, held a comprehensive review meeting on preparedness with officials of the East Coast Railway (ECoR) and South Central Railway (SCR).

The virtual meeting, conducted on Tuesday, aimed to assess the operational readiness and safety measures being implemented by both railway zones to mitigate any potential disruptions caused by the approaching cyclone.

Focus on Passenger Safety and Operational Continuity

During the review, the Hon’ble Minister was briefed on precautionary actions already undertaken in vulnerable areas, particularly across the Waltair and Khurda Road divisions. Officials highlighted steps such as pre-positioning of engineering and electrical teams, monitoring of overhead equipment, and identification of low-lying track sections prone to flooding.

The Minister stressed that passenger safety remains the top priority, directing all zones to ensure strict adherence to safety protocols and timely communication with passengers regarding cancellations, diversions, or rescheduling of trains.

High Alert Across Railway Zones

General Manager of East Coast Railway, Shri Parmeshwar Funkwal, along with Principal Heads of Departments and Divisional Railway Managers, presented a detailed status report on field preparedness. Disaster response teams have been deployed in strategic locations to tackle any emergency situations.

Shri Vaishnaw emphasized the need for constant coordination with state administrations and disaster management agencies, and instructed both ECoR and SCR to maintain 24×7 control rooms for real-time monitoring of the cyclone’s impact.

Preparedness for Quick Restoration Post-Cyclone

Looking ahead, the Minister directed all railway zones to stay on high alert and to plan for swift restoration of train services once weather conditions improve. He underlined the importance of ensuring that communication channels between railway divisions, control offices, and disaster management cells remain seamless throughout the cyclone period.

The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of the Ministry of Railways to prioritize passenger safety, minimize service disruption, and ensure rapid recovery of railway operations once Cyclone Montha passes.

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As Cyclone Montha edges closer to landfall on Tuesday evening, Odisha braces for another fierce test of resilience. Torrential rains have already begun sweeping across the state, and the administration is on high alert, relocating residents from vulnerable coastal and hilly regions to safer shelters. Amid this, former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik issued a heartfelt video message to the people of Odisha — urging them not to panic but to stay alert and united.

“Do Not Fear, Stay Alert”: Naveen’s Appeal to the People

In his video address, Patnaik said, “My dear brothers and sisters, as you know, Cyclone Montha is approaching. We have faced many cyclones successfully in the past. So do not be afraid. Stay alert and fully cooperate with the administration.”
He also called upon his party workers to stand by the people during these difficult hours — helping the administration and offering every possible support to those in distress. “We have always faced disasters together, and we will face this one too,” he concluded, ending with “Bande Utkala Janani.”

A Legacy of Preparedness and Resilience

Odisha’s battle-hardened disaster management system — shaped during Patnaik’s 24-year tenure — continues to be a global model. From the devastating 1999 Super Cyclone, which claimed over 10,000 lives, to subsequent storms like Fani, Hudhud, Titli, Yaas, and Phailin, the state has moved from tragedy to triumph through strategic preparedness and community participation.

Patnaik’s emphasis on “Zero Casualty” and rapid response infrastructure has transformed Odisha’s approach to natural disasters. His administration built thousands of cyclone shelters, established the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), and integrated real-time technology and grassroots mobilization into disaster response.

Admiration from Across the Spectrum

Senior BJD leader and former minister Ashok Panda noted that Odisha’s current safety net is a direct result of Patnaik’s long-term planning post-1999. “Back then, Odisha faced unimaginable loss. But Naveen Babu’s focus on preparedness and public awareness has saved countless lives since,” he said.
Former PCC president Jayadev Jena echoed similar sentiments, adding, “Odisha learned its lessons after 1999. Every year, it has only improved its disaster response. Today, as Montha nears, that spirit of readiness is once again visible.”

As the state braces for Montha’s landfall near Andhra Pradesh’s Kakinada, Odisha’s model of coordinated governance, community trust, and calm leadership — championed by Naveen Patnaik — remains its greatest shield against nature’s wrath.

The post Naveen Patnaik’s Message Ahead of Cyclone Montha: “Don’t Panic, Stay Alert — We Will Face It Together” appeared first on Odisha Connect.