Bhubaneswar, Oct. 27 -- With Cyclone Montha closing in from the Bay of Bengal, the Odisha government has begun large-scale evacuation efforts in southern districts, aiming for zero casualties.

As part of its preparedness plan, hundreds of residents have already been shifted to safer locations in Ganjam and Gajapati, two of the most vulnerable districts expected to face the cyclone's fury.

According to sources, evacuation began early Sunday evening in Ganjam district's Patrapur block, where around 300 people from Ankuli, Buratal, and Tumba panchayats were moved to cyclone shelters.

Reports stated that the administration has arranged temporary accommodation at local schools and welfare halls, while nine pregnant women have been admitted ...