Cyclone Arnab Leaves Widespread Damage

Visakhapatnam is facing a major restoration effort after Cyclone Arnab brought heavy rainfall and powerful winds to the city. Several neighbourhoods were left covered in fallen branches, uprooted trees and other debris, disrupting transport and daily activities.

According to The Hindu, more than 1,000 trees were uprooted across the city. Fallen electric poles, damaged transformers and snapped power lines also contributed to widespread electricity disruptions.

Roads Blocked Across Several Localities

Fallen trees and branches blocked roads in several parts of Visakhapatnam, including Seethammadhara, Akkayyapalem, MVP Colony, China Waltair, Maddilapalem, Madhavadhara, Murali Nagar, Visalakshi Nagar, Sagar Nagar and Pendurthi.

The damage affected commuters and residents as restoration teams worked to clear debris and reopen important routes. By 3 p.m. on Wednesday, teams had cleared 245 fallen trees, according to the report.

GVMC teams, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Fire Services Department were involved in clearing roads and restoring access to affected areas.

Power Cuts and Network Disruptions

Damage to electricity infrastructure left residents in several localities without power for extended periods. Fallen trees and damaged lines complicated restoration work, while weak mobile signals and internet connectivity disrupted access to online services.

The outages also affected routine household activities and businesses, adding to the difficulties faced by residents in the aftermath of the cyclone.

Waterlogging Adds to Residents’ Problems

Heavy rain caused waterlogging in several parts of the city, particularly in low-lying areas and parts of the Gajuwaka zone. Roads and service lanes were inundated, affecting vehicle movement and pedestrian access.

Residents in areas such as Jaggayyapalem and HB Colony reported flooding concerns, while overflowing drains and streams added to the problems in several neighbourhoods.

Residents Shifted to Safer Locations

Authorities moved nearly 600 people from hillock and low-lying areas to rehabilitation centres, according to the report. Officials also maintained restrictions and safety precautions in vulnerable locations during the severe weather.

Residents were advised to avoid damaged roads, fallen electric lines, unstable structures and waterlogged areas until authorities declared them safe.

Restoration Efforts Continue Across Vizag

Civic teams and emergency personnel continue to focus on debris clearance, road access and the restoration of essential services. Electricity restoration and the assessment of damage to homes, businesses and public infrastructure remain important priorities.

The aftermath of Cyclone Arnab highlights the need for resilient urban infrastructure and effective emergency preparedness as Visakhapatnam works towards restoring normal life.