Bhubaneswar, Oct 27: The Odisha government has ordered the temporary closure of Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) in eight districts as a precautionary measure in anticipation of Cyclone 'Montha,' which is expected to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to the state from October 27 to 30, 2025.

An advisory issued by Nilu Mohapatra, Additional Secretary of the Women & Child Development Department, follows predictions from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) of intense weather conditions, including heavy to very heavy rainfall and strong gusty winds over the next few days.

AWCs in districts under Red Alert :Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, and Nabarangpur will remain closed on October 28 and 29. Depending on the prevailing weather conditions, local administrations may also consider closing AWCs on October 27 and 30.

For districts under Orange Alert Khordha, Puri, Nayagarh, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapada, and Bhadrak local authorities will assess the situation and decide on temporary closures based on the severity of rainfall and wind conditions.

The government has instructed officials to take all necessary precautions, including relocating pregnant women to safe shelters. Residents are urged to stay indoors, stay updated through official channels, and cooperate with local authorities during the cyclone period.

The advisory emphasized the need for strict adherence to safety measures to prevent any unfortunate incidents.