As Cyclone Montha approached India’s east coast in late October 2025, the nation’s disaster management system was once again put to the test. The storm was projected to make landfall near Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh, with wind speeds reaching up to 110 km/h. Along with strong winds, the cyclone brought the threat of heavy rainfall, storm surges, and flooding across several coastal and inland districts. India’s experience in dealing with tropical cyclones like Montha reveals how preparedness, coordination, and rapid response have become central to minimizing damage and saving lives.
Before the cyclone made landfall, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued multiple alerts and updates, giving authorities sufficient time to prepare. State governments in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Tamil Nadu immediately activated emergency protocols, placing the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Forces (SDRF) on high alert. In Andhra Pradesh alone, eight NDRF and nine SDRF teams were deployed across coastal districts. The early warning system ensured that local administrations could begin clearing low-lying areas and mobilizing resources ahead of time.
Evacuation played a major role in reducing casualties during Cyclone Montha. In Odisha, more than 11,000 people were moved from vulnerable coastal and riverine zones to safer shelters. Over 2,000 relief shelters were opened across affected districts, equipped with food, drinking water, and emergency medical aid. Similar measures were taken in Andhra Pradesh, where officials reviewed disaster readiness, arranged transportation facilities for evacuation, and set up temporary relief camps. The emphasis was on public safety and achieving a “zero casualty” target, a goal often reiterated by the Odisha government during such natural calamities.
Operational coordination was another defining feature of India’s response. The NDRF, police, civil defense, and local municipal bodies worked together to ensure smooth evacuations and relief distribution. Railways and transportation departments were instructed to modify operations and halt services in high-risk areas. The armed forces were also placed on standby, ready to assist in rescue and relief operations if the situation worsened. Communication lines between central, state, and district control rooms remained active, ensuring quick dissemination of updates and instructions.
When Cyclone Montha finally made landfall near Kakinada, it caused considerable wind damage, uprooted trees, disrupted power lines, and flooded low-lying regions. Despite the destruction, the coordinated response limited the loss of life. Thousands were already in shelters, and emergency teams were quick to clear roads and restore connectivity. As the storm weakened while moving inland, heavy rainfall triggered concerns of flash floods and landslides, particularly in hilly regions. In Vijayawada, nearly one lakh families living in such zones were placed on alert to prevent post-cyclone disasters.
Relief and restoration efforts began immediately after the cyclone passed. District administrations focused on clearing debris, repairing damaged roads, and restoring essential services like electricity and water supply. Medical teams were deployed to prevent disease outbreaks, while volunteers distributed food and essential supplies to affected families. Municipal corporations in major cities mobilized flood-control teams and equipment to drain waterlogged areas and prevent secondary crises.
The management of Cyclone Montha offers several valuable lessons. Early forecasting, timely evacuation, and multi-agency coordination continue to be the pillars of India’s disaster response. The effective use of shelters, communication systems, and local administration support reduced the impact significantly. However, the increasing frequency and intensity of cyclones due to climate change highlight the need for continuous upgrades to infrastructure and preparedness programs.
Cyclone Montha once again demonstrated that India’s disaster management capabilities have evolved considerably over the years. From early warning systems to community-based relief networks, the country’s preparedness has saved countless lives. Yet, as climate patterns grow more unpredictable, there is a pressing need for long-term investments in resilience and sustainable infrastructure. For millions of people living along India’s vulnerable east coast, these efforts are not just about recovery—they are about ensuring a safer, more resilient future.
