With Cyclone Montha forecast to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by October 28, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has directed the entire administrative machinery to remain on highest alert. Moreover, they must initiate precautionary measures across vulnerable coastal districts.
The Chief Minister chaired a high-level review via teleconference on Sunday. He warned that heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, along with strong winds, will likely hit the Machilipatnam–Kakinada coast between October 27 and 29. He instructed district Collectors to ensure zero casualties. They should ensure a swift response and uninterrupted communication systems during the Cyclone Montha impact period.
Cyclone Montha: Early warnings and emergency response
Naidu stressed that timely alerts to citizens are critical. These alerts must be sent through SMS, WhatsApp, IVRS calls, social media, and village-level announcements. He said real-time information must flow from village secretariats to the State Command Control Centre without delay. This is important for quick decision-making.
The Chief Minister announced that authorities have already deployed National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams in strategic coastal zones. Officials are evacuating families from low-lying and vulnerable coastal areas. They are preparing cyclone shelters and relief camps with food, water, and power backup. Also, they are monitoring reservoirs, canals, and irrigation projects around the clock. Drones are being deployed to assess damage and track rescue operations.
Naidu revealed that authorities have equipped nearly 27,000 mobile towers with diesel backup to prevent service disruption. Teams are working to maintain an uninterrupted power, telecom, and drinking water supply. Officials are positioning power saws, JCBs, and cranes at every subdivision to clear fallen trees and restore road connectivity. They are mobilising repair crews to fix damaged roads, tank bunds, and canal breaches. Based on the cyclone’s intensity and impact, district Collectors may declare holidays.
Fishermen and agriculture safety measures
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu instructed authorities to bring back all boats still out at sea, including 82 mechanised and 37 motorised vessels. The Chief Minister has instructed the Agriculture Department and RTG officials to assess crop damage accurately. They should take steps to prevent further losses. Special officers have been appointed to each coastal district to manage cyclone response, coordinate relief efforts, and ensure smooth inter-departmental collaboration. Naidu took a firm stance on public safety, stating that the State government will assume full responsibility for protecting citizens.
The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority is also monitoring the trajectory of Cyclone Montha.
