Andhra Pradesh Ramps Up Power Restoration, Health Measures Amid Cyclone Threat

Andhra Pradesh has intensified its response to cyclone-related disruptions, with electricity restoration work accelerating in affected districts and special task forces deployed to prevent disease outbreaks and safeguard drinking water quality. Authorities are also monitoring an emerging weather system over the Bay of Bengal and coordinating rescue operations for crew members stranded aboard a merchant vessel near Antarvedi.

The Andhra Pradesh Eastern Power Distribution Company Limited (APEPDCL) has stepped up field operations to repair damaged power poles, lines, feeders and distribution points. Restoration work is progressing in Amalapuram, Visakhapatnam and other affected areas, with engineers supervising repairs to ensure electricity supplies return to normal. Crews are replacing damaged infrastructure, removing fallen tree branches and undertaking safety measures on affected high-voltage lines.

In the Bhimavaram division, workers are replacing a damaged 12.5-metre power pole near Kopalle village. Repairs are also underway on the 33 kV Vemagiri-1 and Yelamanchili feeders, while restoration teams are addressing damage to distribution points and other electricity infrastructure.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has directed officials to strengthen sanitation measures in vulnerable areas. A special task force involving 475 personnel from nine districts has been deployed to prevent infectious diseases. Of the 100 sanitation teams allocated, 55 will work in Dr BR Ambedkar Konaseema district and 45 in West Godavari district. Their duties include clearing stagnant water, cleaning drains and carrying out bleaching and chlorination.

To protect public health, 48 technical personnel have been assigned to test drinking water in Konaseema and West Godavari. The teams will inspect water sources and supplies to identify contamination risks and prevent waterborne illnesses.

The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority has also warned of possible rainfall as a low-pressure area over the South Andaman Sea is expected to strengthen. Coastal Andhra Pradesh may experience moderate to heavy rainfall on November 1 and 2, prompting continued monitoring.

Separately, the Indian Coast Guard is conducting a rescue operation for a merchant vessel stranded near Antarvedi while travelling from Visakhapatnam to Singapore. Thirteen crew members have been transferred safely to Coast Guard vessel Sujay, while efforts to evacuate the remaining seven by helicopter are continuing.

Officials are coordinating power repairs, preventive health measures and rescue operations to minimise weather-related risks.