As Cyclone Montha intensifies over the Bay of Bengal, around 60 fishing trawlers from Andhra Pradesh have taken emergency shelter at Gopalpur Port in Odisha’s Ganjam district. The fishermen, mostly from the coastal districts of Srikakulam and Vizianagaram, sought refuge to avoid the rising sea turbulence and strong winds triggered by the approaching storm.
According to officials, the trawlers reached the port on Tuesday night after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for severe sea conditions along the north Andhra and south Odisha coasts. Local authorities, along with the Odisha Fisheries Department, provided the fishermen with temporary accommodation, food, and necessary safety measures.
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Authorities on High Alert as Cyclone Advances
Odisha’s Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Satyabrata Sahu confirmed that the state administration is closely monitoring the situation. He stated that control rooms have been activated in all coastal districts, while the Indian Coast Guard and port authorities are coordinating to ensure no fishing vessel ventures into the sea.
He said that patrol boats are also conducting surveillance to prevent any stranded boats from drifting away. “We have instructed the fishermen not to venture into the sea until the cyclone completely passes. Adequate arrangements have been made for those who have taken shelter in Gopalpur,” Sahu added.
Meanwhile, the IMD’s latest forecast suggests that Cyclone Montha, currently categorized as a severe cyclonic storm, is likely to move north-northeastwards and make landfall between the Odisha and West Bengal coasts within the next 48 hours. The coastal regions are expected to experience wind speeds of 80 to 100 kmph, accompanied by heavy rainfall and rough sea conditions.
Fishing Banned Across Andhra and Odisha Coasts
In light of the warning, both Andhra Pradesh and Odisha governments have enforced a complete ban on marine fishing activities. Fishermen who were at sea were advised to return immediately, while those preparing for trips have been stopped from launching their boats.
The Andhra Pradesh Fisheries Department reported that nearly 200 boats operating from Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, and Visakhapatnam coasts have returned safely to shore. The department also confirmed that 60 boats opted to dock at Gopalpur, where they were provided with logistic support.
Officials from the Odisha Marine Fisheries Department have set up relief camps near the port. Fishermen have been given dry food, drinking water, and basic healthcare facilities. Local volunteers and NGOs are assisting in ensuring that the temporary shelters remain safe and well-equipped during the cyclone’s impact period.
Coast Guard and Disaster Response Teams Deployed
The Indian Coast Guard has deployed additional vessels and aircraft for continuous surveillance across the Bay of Bengal. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) teams have also been stationed at strategic coastal locations.
Coast Guard Commandant Ankit Sharma stated that all vessels have been instructed to maintain radio contact. “We are in touch with the fishermen who have anchored at Gopalpur and nearby ports. Our teams are ensuring that all safety measures are followed,” he said.
In addition, the Gopalpur Port Authority has strengthened its security and safety operations. Workers have been advised to suspend port activities temporarily, while cranes, containers, and machinery have been secured. The administration has also cleared nearby low-lying areas to prevent flooding.
Ganjam District Administration Steps Up Preparedness
Ganjam District Collector Dibyajyoti Parida has directed all departments to remain on high alert. The administration has identified cyclone shelters and arranged for food packets, water supply, and power backup in case of outages.
“We are prepared for any emergency. All fishermen and coastal residents have been advised to stay indoors. Our evacuation teams are ready to move people from vulnerable areas if needed,” Parida said.
The district has also suspended schools and colleges in coastal blocks for two days as a precautionary measure. Health officials have stocked medicines and first aid kits in cyclone shelters to address potential medical emergencies.
Heavy Rainfall and Tidal Waves Expected
The IMD has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall in Ganjam, Gajapati, and Puri districts, while moderate to heavy rain may occur in parts of Andhra’s north coastal belt. Sea waves are expected to rise as high as 3 to 4 meters, prompting warnings for residents in low-lying coastal villages.
Odisha’s Energy Department has instructed power distribution companies to ensure minimal disruption and keep restoration teams ready. Meanwhile, the Water Resources Department has been asked to monitor river water levels and maintain communication with dam authorities.
Fishermen Pray for Calm Seas
Many fishermen expressed anxiety over the uncertain weather conditions. “We were at sea when the wind started getting stronger. The Coast Guard warned us, so we came to Gopalpur. We are thankful to the officials for helping us,” said Ramu, a fisherman from Vizianagaram.
Another fisherman, Lakshman, shared that this was not the first time they had sought shelter in Odisha. “During cyclones like Titli and Fani, we had also stayed here. The people of Gopalpur have always supported us,” he said.
State Governments Work in Coordination
The Andhra Pradesh and Odisha governments are working together to ensure safety and coordination. Both chief secretaries have exchanged updates, and joint control rooms have been set up to monitor fishing movements and rescue operations.
Officials confirmed that once Cyclone Montha weakens, arrangements will be made for the fishermen to return home. The authorities have assured them of safe passage and assistance during their journey back.
As the storm continues to move toward the coast, both states remain on high alert, hoping to avoid major damage and ensure the safety of all those affected by the turbulent sea.
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