South Central Railway steps up cyclone safety measures ahead of Arnab landfall
Hyderabad: South Central Railway (SCR) intensified railway cyclone safety measures on Tuesday as Cyclone Arnab approached the Andhra Pradesh coast, threatening heavy rainfall and possible disruption of train services.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast that the cyclone would cross the Andhra Pradesh coast near Yanam on Wednesday, October 28, during the forenoon. It was expected to make landfall as a very severe cyclonic storm. Meanwhile, the IMD issued a red alert for Khammam, Bhadradri Kothagudem, Mulugu and Mahabubabad districts in Telangana.
Heavy rainfall was also expected across parts of the state on October 28 and 29. Consequently, railway authorities warned that train operations could face disruptions depending on prevailing weather conditions.
SCR reviews railway cyclone safety measures
South Central Railway General Manager Sanjay Kumar Srivastava reviewed preparedness across the railway network ahead of the expected cyclone landfall. The review focused on vulnerable railway bridges, sensitive track sections and arrangements for monitoring infrastructure during severe weather.
Officials also examined patrolling arrangements and water levels at locations requiring close observation. Additionally, the General Manager reviewed the positioning of emergency relief equipment to ensure readiness for possible weather-related disruptions.
The railway administration intensified precautionary arrangements in view of the cyclone forecast and heavy rainfall warnings. South Central Railway indicated that train services could be cancelled, diverted or rescheduled depending on weather conditions.
The possibility of heavy rainfall and severe weather prompted the railway administration to strengthen monitoring of vulnerable infrastructure. Meanwhile, the red alert covering four Telangana districts raised concerns about rainfall-related disruptions in affected areas.
Railway officials continued preparations to respond to changing weather conditions and protect train operations. The railway cyclone safety measures included inspections of vulnerable sections, patrolling arrangements and monitoring of water levels.
Passengers advised to check train status before travelling
South Central Railway advised passengers to verify their train schedules before beginning their journeys on October 28 and 29. Travellers can obtain updated information through IRCTC, RailOne and the National Train Enquiry System (NTES).
Passengers can also contact railway enquiry number 139 for information about train operations. Additionally, SCR said updates would be available through its official website and social media channels.
The railway administration advised passengers to monitor official announcements for possible cancellations, diversions and rescheduling. These precautions followed the forecast of Cyclone Arnab crossing near Yanam and the IMD’s heavy rainfall warnings for parts of Telangana.