Cyclone ‘Arnab’: SARAS National Mela in Vijayawada closed for public on October 28

Visitors inspect products at a stall at the National SARAS Mela-2026 at Punnami Ghat in Vijayawada. GN RAO | Photo credit: RAO GN

The National SARAS Mela–2026 at Punnami Ghat in Vijayawada will remain temporarily closed to the public on Wednesday (October 28, 2026) as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of visitors, Self Help Group (SHG) members, artisans, stall operators and other staff.

Society for the Eradication of Rural Poverty (SERP) Additional Director D. John said the decision was taken in view of the rain warning issued for the city by the AP State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) due to a very severe cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal.

Due to the prevailing weather conditions and expected risks, officials decided to temporarily suspend public access to the mela on Wednesday.

The National SARAS Mela–2026 will reopen to the public on October 29 (Thursday) and continue till October 31 (Saturday), subject to prevailing weather conditions and safety considerations.

According to data available to officials, the mela recorded cumulative sales of ₹ 10.54 crore as of October 26, with women Self-Help Group (SHG) entrepreneurs selling 4.81 million products.

Cultural programs organized as part of the mela become a major attraction for visitors. Performances by artists from Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh received a standing ovation.

Published – 27 Oct 2026 23:27 IST