Odisha Raids Black Marketing to Secure Essentials Ahead of Cyclone Montha

In a decisive move to protect consumers from exploitation during Cyclone Montha, the Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Department of Odisha has launched statewide raids targeting black marketing and hoarding of essential commodities.

With the cyclone expected to impact the region from October 28 to 30, authorities have intensified inspections across districts to ensure uninterrupted access to vital goods. The crackdown focuses on key staples such as flattened rice (chuda), jaggery (gud), sugar, pulses (dali), cooking oil, potatoes, and onions.

District collectors have been instructed to enforce strict monitoring, especially in areas forecasted for heavy rainfall. Officials confirm that adequate stocks have been secured and supply chains remain stable, aiming to prevent panic buying and inflated prices.

This proactive initiative reassures citizens that essential items will remain available at fair rates, even as the state braces for adverse weather conditions.