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.