Cyclone Montha: Trains cancelled, flights hit as Andhra braces for storm, High alert
Cyclone Montha has led to significant disruption across Andhra Pradesh, with over 65 trains cancelled, all major flights suspended, and a high alert declared throughout the coastal regions as the storm intensifies and nears landfall. Authorities have set up relief camps, evacuated thousands from vulnerable areas, and mobilized emergency services as heavy rain and strong winds lash the state’s coastline.
Transportation Disruptions
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More than 65 passenger and express trains, especially those passing through Vijayawada, Rajahmundry, Kakinada, Visakhapatnam, and Bhimavaram, have been cancelled for October 28 and 29. The cancellations will remain effective until weather safety assessments are completed.
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East Coast and South Central Railways have halted several services, including both local and express trains, affecting thousands of passengers. Key cancelled services include Godavari Express, Uday Express, Garib Rath, and Visakhapatnam–Tirupati Express.
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All IndiGo and Air India Express flights scheduled for October 28 from Visakhapatnam, as well as several flights from Vijayawada, have been grounded. Passengers are advised to verify their flight status before travelling to the airport.
High Alert in Andhra Pradesh
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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange warning, anticipating Cyclone Montha will intensify into a severe cyclonic storm with wind speeds expected to reach 90–100 kmph, gusting up to 110 kmph. Landfall is projected between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, near Kakinada, late on October 28.
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The Andhra Pradesh government, led by the Chief Minister and disaster management authorities, is closely monitoring the situation. Over 400 relief camps have been established, evacuation operations are underway, and NDRF and SDRF teams are fully mobilized for rescue and relief.
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Red alerts have been issued for multiple districts, including Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, Anakapalle, Kakinada, Konaseema, West Godavari, Krishna, Guntur, Bapatla, Prakasam, and Nellore. Orange and yellow alerts are in place for other regions, indicating varying levels of predicted impact. Schools and colleges in coastal areas have been closed as a precaution.
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Fishermen are advised to avoid venturing out to sea, and beaches have been closed to tourists.
Official Response and Recommendations
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The administration is coordinating a maximum preparedness plan, including real-time monitoring and pre-emptive evacuations in low-lying regions.
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Passengers are strongly advised to check the status of trains at the official Indian Railways website and confirm flight operations with airlines before travelling.
Cyclone Montha’s severe impact on transport and public safety measures underscores the seriousness of the threat, and continued updates from meteorological and government authorities are expected as the situation evolves.
