The Andhra Pradesh Eastern Power Distribution Company Limited (APEPDCL) has placed 12 districts under its operational jurisdiction on high alert as a weather system over the Bay of Bengal threatens to intensify into a cyclonic storm.

APEPDCL Chairman and Managing Director Imadi Prudhvi Tej reviewed preparedness measures through a teleconference with Circle Superintending Engineers, Executive Engineers and other officials. He directed teams to remain vigilant and take preventive steps to minimise disruptions caused by heavy rainfall and strong winds.

12 Districts on High Alert

The districts covered by the alert are Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Parvathipuram Manyam, Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli, Alluri Sitharama Raju, Kakinada, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema, East Godavari, West Godavari, Eluru and Polavaram.

Officials have been instructed to keep field personnel, vehicles, electricity poles, transformers and other essential equipment ready for emergency response. The company is also preparing for the rapid restoration of electricity in areas where power infrastructure may be damaged by strong winds, fallen trees or heavy rainfall.

Continuous Monitoring and Emergency Response

APEPDCL will continuously monitor the electricity supply situation from its corporate office, with regular reviews to coordinate emergency response and restoration work.

District-level control rooms have also been established to receive complaints and coordinate assistance. Consumers can report power outages and electricity-related emergencies through the toll-free number 1912 or contact their respective district control rooms.

Safety Advisory for Consumers

Residents have been urged to exercise caution during adverse weather conditions. People should stay away from snapped electrical wires, leaning electricity poles and fallen tree branches entangled with power lines, as these can pose a serious risk of electrocution.

Consumers are also encouraged to promptly inform electricity officials about damaged infrastructure or unsafe electrical conditions rather than attempting repairs themselves.

Cyclone Threat Over the Bay of Bengal

The alert follows weather forecasts indicating that a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal could intensify into a cyclonic storm. If the system develops into a cyclone, it is expected to be named Arnab, a name contributed by Bangladesh.

The India Meteorological Department has warned of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall over parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh and neighbouring Odisha in the coming days. The system's eventual track and intensity will determine its precise impact on the coast.

APEPDCL's preparedness measures are intended to protect electricity infrastructure, improve emergency response and reduce the duration of power interruptions if severe weather affects the region.