Naidu calls for high alert as another cyclone threat looms over Andhra Pradesh

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu | Photo credit: File photo

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to speed up recovery work in areas affected by Cyclone Arnab and called for a high alert in view of the threat of another cyclone.

As the depression over southeast Bay of Bengal is forecast to intensify into a cyclone by November 1, moderate to heavy rainfall is likely over south coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema regions on November 2, 3 and 4. Mr. Naidu emphasized the need for precautionary measures to minimize the impact.

He reviewed relief and recovery measures in the cyclone-hit areas at the Real Time Governance Society (RTGS) center on Saturday and directed officials to monitor the movement of the depression every six hours using satellite images and Doppler radars and take appropriate action based on its trajectory.

He also called for efficient use of rainwater, continuous mobile phone connectivity and maximum possible use of battery systems for energy storage.

Officials informed him that work to restore power to the affected areas was progressing at a rapid pace, with 7,000 workers and 400 machines deployed.

Mr. Naidu directed officials to urgently restore the protective wall in Kakinada, desilt canals in Narsapuram and Katrenikona areas and strengthen sewerage systems in Konaseema and West Godavari districts to ensure smooth flow of water.

He called for steps to extend insurance coverage to all farmers from the next farming season and emphasized the need to support natural farming.

The Chief Minister ordered compensation of ₹54,000 per hectare for damage to 1,293 hectares of coconut plantations and ₹1,500 for each uprooted coconut tree. Officials informed him that about 1.95 million coconut trees were damaged. They also said steps have been taken to pay compensation of ₹35,000 per hectare for banana crop losses on 15,000 hectares.

Published – 31 Oct 2026 20:55 IST