NEW DELHI: Eastern India is stepping up emergency preparations as Cyclone Arnab approaches the coast, prompting the cancellation of 53 train services, school closures in vulnerable areas and the deployment of disaster response teams. The storm is expected to make landfall along the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coastline on Wednesday, October 28.
The India Meteorological Department has forecast sustained wind speeds of 115 to 125 kmph, with gusts reaching 140 kmph. Authorities are preparing for heavy rainfall, flooding and disruption to transport and essential services.
South Coast Railway has withdrawn 53 train services scheduled for October 27 and 28. Passengers have been advised to check cancellation notices and train running status before leaving for stations. Railway officials have activated a round the clock control room, deployed patrol teams and kept emergency maintenance equipment ready.
Help desks, additional refund counters, medical teams and ambulances have also been arranged. Odisha has separately announced eight train cancellations and the short termination of two services.
The Andhra Pradesh government has intensified preparations under Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. Schools in affected areas have been closed, beaches shut and restrictions on coastal road traffic are expected.
Authorities are arranging the relocation of 4,711 pregnant women from vulnerable areas to hospitals and health centres. The government has released ₹27 crore to 20 districts for emergency operations and relief work.
Fifteen National Disaster Response Force teams have been positioned at vulnerable locations, while 1,763 cyclone shelters have been identified for residents requiring protection.
Odisha has ordered educational institutions in Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Malkangiri, Koraput and Nabarangpur to remain closed on October 28 and 29. Fishing has been prohibited, and access to vulnerable beaches, waterfalls and tourist locations has been restricted.
The state has deployed 24 Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force teams and six NDRF teams. Authorities are also relocating residents from low lying and landslide prone areas.
The weather department has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall in coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam on October 27 and 28. Odisha is likely to experience heavy rainfall on October 28, while Chhattisgarh could receive intense rain on October 28 and 29.
West Bengal is also under a rainfall alert from October 28 to 30, with a landslide warning for Darjeeling. Heavy rain is forecast in East Uttar Pradesh on October 29.
Authorities have urged residents in coastal and low lying areas to follow official warnings, while travellers are advised to monitor transport updates as emergency measures continue.
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