PM Modi Assures Central Support as Cyclone Montha Approaches Andhra Pradesh

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PM Modi Assures Central Support as Cyclone Montha Approaches Andhra Pradesh

Analysis

1. Current Situation
   • Cyclone Montha has developed over the Bay of Bengal and is currently moving northwestwards at approximately 17 kmph.
   • It is positioned around 230 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam and 310 km south-southeast of Kakinada.
2. Forecast and Intensity
   • The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) have issued a red alert for Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, adjoining South Odisha coasts, and Chhattisgarh.
   • The cyclone is expected to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm, with wind speeds reaching 90–110 km/h.
   • Landfall is likely between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam around Kakinada.
3. Impact and Precautionary Measures
   • Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in Rayalaseema, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Telangana, and coastal Odisha.
   • Sea waves may rise between 1.8 to 3.8 metres; fishermen have been advised to avoid venturing into the sea until the 29th.
   • Transport disruptions:
     • Railways (South Central & East Coast) and Air India Express have cancelled multiple services.
     • 43 trains have been cancelled and some routes diverted in Odisha.
4. Administrative Response
   • Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured full central assistance after speaking with Andhra Pradesh CM N. Chandrababu Naidu.
   • State government actions include:
     • Evacuation of residents from low-lying areas.
     • Closure of schools in affected districts.
     • Deployment of NDRF and SDRF teams for relief and rescue.
     • District Collectors and Special Officers supervising ground operations.
   • In Odisha, the state government plans to shift over 35,000 people to cyclone shelters and has closed schools and Anganwadi centres in eight southern districts.
5. Preparedness and Coordination
   • Both state and central agencies have activated disaster response protocols.
   • Coordination between IMD, NDRF, SDRF, and local administration highlights proactive disaster risk management.

Static & Conceptual Background

1. Cyclone Classification (IMD)
   • Depression: 31–49 km/h
   • Deep Depression: 50–61 km/h
   • Cyclonic Storm: 62–88 km/h
   • Severe Cyclonic Storm: 89–117 km/h
   • Very Severe Cyclonic Storm: 118–165 km/h
   • Super Cyclonic Storm: >222 km/h
2. Naming of Cyclones
   • Managed by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and IMD for the North Indian Ocean.
   • “Montha” is a name contributed by one of the member countries.
3. Institutional Framework
   • IMD (Indian Meteorological Department): Responsible for cyclone tracking and warnings.
   • NDRF (National Disaster Response Force): Primary agency for disaster response.
   • INCOIS: Provides ocean information and tsunami/cyclone alerts.
4. Disaster Management Framework in India
   • Governed by the Disaster Management Act, 2005.
   • Institutional structure: NDMA (policy) → NDRF (response) → State Disaster Management Authorities (implementation).
     
     Updated - October 28, 2025 8:35 AM  | News On Air