GVMC on High Alert as Cyclone Montha Nears; Relief and Rescue Teams on Standby

Visakhapatnam: The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) has gone on high alert in view of Cyclone Monta, with relief and rescue measures being intensified across all zones. Commissioner Shri Ketan Garg, IAS, said that the civic body is fully equipped to ensure citizen safety and a quick response to any emergency situation.

A total of 55 rehabilitation centres have been set up across the city, while 20 Quick Response Teams (two per zone) have been deployed with JCBs, tippers, tractors, tree cutters, and bailing machines. Control rooms will function round-the-clock until October 30 for coordination and citizen support.

GVMC has also placed essential machinery on standby, including 29 JCBs, 82 sprayers, 64 fogging machines, 26 power saws, 2 Shaktiman vehicles, 15 generators, and 108 satellite communication devices.

Citizens can reach out to control rooms through the toll-free number 1800 4250 0009 or main office line 0891-2507225, with separate helplines active in each of the eight zones.

Authorities have advised residents in low-lying and hilly areas to remain alert, avoid trees, poles, hoardings, and weak structures during heavy winds and rainfall. The commissioner urged citizens to cooperate with GVMC teams to ensure safety and smooth relief operations.