Cyclone Murasu Hits Andhra Pradesh Coast and Halts Train Services

Severe cyclonic storm Murasu has hit the coast near Ongole in south Andhra Pradesh, bringing heavy rain and winds of up to 100 kmph. The storm has disrupted normal life in Prakasam district and nearby areas, forcing authorities to suspend train services.

Railway Impact

The Vijayawada Division of South Coast Railway has stopped train movements on the Vijayawada-Ongole-Gudur section to keep passengers safe. Officials have cancelled several local and express routes, including services from Bitragunta to Vijayawada, Vijayawada to Gudur, Gudur to Renigunta, Nellore to Vijayawada, Vijayawada to Narasapur, Narasapur to Rajahmundry, and Vijayawada to Ongole. Nineteen trains heading toward Chennai and ten trains moving from the south toward Vijayawada have been stopped safely at stations along the way. Seven other trains, such as the Tirupati-Puri and Chennai Central-Jodhpur services, are delayed by 120 minutes.

Context

Coastal regions in India often face severe cyclonic storms during the northeast monsoon season, bringing heavy downpours and strong winds that require immediate safety precautions. Rail authorities regularly pause operations or divert express trains during extreme weather alerts to prevent accidents on flooded or damaged tracks.