Cyclone Montha Batters Andhra Pradesh: Torrential Rains, Power Cuts, and Travel Disruptions

Cyclone Montha unleashed widespread destruction across Andhra Pradesh, bringing torrential rains, fierce winds, and extensive damage to infrastructure. The powerful storm made landfall near Antarvedipalem in BR Ambedkar Konaseema district around midnight on Tuesday, uprooting trees, toppling electric poles, and flooding several coastal villages. Preliminary assessments indicate that nearly 43,000 hectares of agricultural land have been devastated, leaving farmers in distress. Widespread damage to power lines and transformers plunged thousands of homes into darkness as the cyclone battered the state’s coastal belt.

High tidal waves reaching up to ten feet battered Kakinada, Konaseema, and neighboring regions, eroding roads and inundating farmlands. Transport networks were severely hit — the Visakhapatnam–Kirandul rail line suffered major damage, with tracks washed away near Araku Tunnel No. 32A and between Chimidipalli and Borra Guhalu stations. Rail and air services were suspended for safety, while RTC bus operations came to a standstill in many areas, stranding passengers. Vehicular traffic on National Highway 16 was halted due to heavy rainfall and fallen trees, worsening the travel chaos.

Authorities evacuated residents from vulnerable low-lying areas to relief shelters, ensuring food and accommodation. Out of 28,000 disrupted electricity connections, officials managed to restore power to over 21,000 households overnight. More than 1,000 repair teams comprising 11,000 personnel were deployed to expedite restoration. In Machilipatnam, strong winds snapped electric lines, cutting power to several neighborhoods, though repair efforts are ongoing.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu announced immediate relief for affected fishermen families, including 50 kilograms of rice per household. He directed officials to assess damages swiftly and accelerate recovery operations. As rescue and relief teams continue their efforts, Cyclone Montha has once again underscored the fragility of Andhra Pradesh’s coastal regions against the fury of nature.