Vijayawada Shuts Temple Ghat Road and Schools as Cyclonic Storm Arnab Approaches

Authorities in Vijayawada have shut the main route to the hilltop Goddess Kanaka Durga temple and declared a two-day holiday for schools as a severe cyclonic storm approaches the region. The India Meteorological Department expects heavy to very heavy rainfall in NTR district on October 27 and 28 under the influence of the system named Cyclone Arnab.

Action Taken

Temple officials restricted vehicular movement on the Indrakeeladri ghat road on October 27 to prevent accidents from potential rockslides, directing all visitors to use the Mahamandapam path instead. City workers started taking down large outdoor hoardings and warned families living near the Budameru rivulet to stay alert. The district administration also set up a control room at the Collectorate, while the municipal corporation readied 30 relief centres for families living in low-lying zones. Officials reported no rainfall in the city or district as of 10.30 a.m. on Monday.

Context

Coastal districts in Andhra Pradesh frequently face heavy downpours and cyclonic storms during the northeast monsoon season, prompting local bodies to activate disaster response measures early. Hilltop temples like the one on Indrakeeladri often face a high risk of mudslides and falling rocks during continuous heavy rains.