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With Cyclone Arnab expected to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast on October 28, the state government and railway authorities have stepped up preparedness
measures, including train cancellations, school holidays in several districts and the release of Rs 27 crore for relief operations. South Coast Railway has announced precautionary measures, including the cancellation of 53 trains, and established 24-hour war rooms at its zonal and divisional headquarters to coordinate emergency responses. Passengers have been advised to check official railway announcements before travelling. The Andhra Pradesh government has also released ₹27 crore to 20 districts to support cyclone preparedness and relief operations.
Schools closed in several districts
Authorities have declared holidays for educational institutions in several coastal districts in view of the forecast of heavy rainfall and strong winds.Meanwhile, Visakhapatnam, Kakinada and Dr B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema districts have announced holidays for October 27 and 28. In Anakapalli, schools are to remain closed from October 27 to 29.
Cyclone likely to make landfall on October 28
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that Cyclone Arnab is likely to cross the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam by the forenoon of October 28. The system is expected to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm, with sustained wind speeds of 115–125 kmph and gusts reaching 140 kmph.Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is forecast in parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh on October 27 and 28. The cyclone is also expected to affect Telangana and parts of neighbouring states after landfall.
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to maintain round-the-clock vigilance, establish control rooms and coordinate preparedness measures across departments. Authorities have also been instructed to alert residents in vulnerable coastal areas and facilitate their movement to safer locations where necessary.
