Odisha Restores Road Connectivity Within 8 Hours After Cyclone Montha Landslide
In a remarkable display of disaster preparedness and coordination, Odisha restored road connectivity in Gajapati district within just eight hours following a major landslide triggered by Cyclone Montha.
The landslide occurred along the Ramagiri–Badagaon Ghat road in R. Udayagiri block, isolating five villages and severing a key link between Gajapati and Ganjam districts. As rainfall subsided, the district administration sprang into action with support from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local police.
A high-powered team comprising the Additional District Magistrate, Block Development Officer, tehsildar, engineers, and operators from the Rural Development and Works departments executed a swift clearance operation.
Controlled blasting and two JCB excavators were deployed to remove large boulders and debris, successfully reopening the road within eight hours.
Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari confirmed that Cyclone Montha affected 33 blocks and 11 urban areas across the state. Over 19,000 people were evacuated before landfall, and 161 response teams were deployed. Relief efforts included 362 free kitchens serving hot meals to more than 18,700 people.
Authorities remain on alert until October 31 due to intermittent rainfall in some districts.
