Cyclone Arnab: Traffic curbs from 9 p.m. in Vizag, Anakapalli; scores of people evacuated

High waves crash along the coast as Cyclone Arnab approaches, in Visakhapatnam on Tuesday. | Photo Credit: K.R. DEEPAK With Visakhapatnam and Anakapalli bracing for the impact of Cyclone Arnab, the authorities have decided to impose traffic restrictions across the two districts from 9 p.m. on Tuesday. Officials from both the districts have urged the public to come out only in case of an emergency.In Visakhapatnam, a large number of residents from vulnerable hillock and low-lying areas are being evacuated to safer locations. The authorities have set up 56 rehabilitation centres across the city to accommodate those shifted from vulnerable localities, as strong winds, heavy rain and overflowing drains pose a growing threat to public safety.The restrictions come as the cyclone is expected to intensify by Tuesday night or Wednesday morning, bringing heavy to very heavy rain and strong winds. The district administration, Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) and police have urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel and venture out only in emergencies. Bus services in the city have also been cancelled as a precautionary measure.Residents from vulnerable hillock areas in Hanumanthawaka, Kapparada, Venkojipalem, Gajuwaka, Vepagunta and Arilova, besides low-lying localities in One Town and fishing hamlets, including Mangamaripeta, were among those shifted to rehabilitation centres. The exact number of evacuees was not immediately available.Meanwhile, the civic administration has placed its machinery on high alert to minimise damage to life and property. GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg directed all departmental officials and Zonal Commissioners to coordinate emergency preparedness and ensure that relief measures could be undertaken immediately.The Commissioner instructed Town Planning officials to identify dilapidated buildings and shift their occupants to safer locations.Officials were directed to keep earth movers, tippers, cranes, water pumps, generators and other emergency equipment ready in every zone, with adequate fuel stocks to ensure uninterrupted operations during emergencies. The Deputy Director of Horticulture was asked to ensure the immediate removal of fallen trees and branches to prevent traffic disruptions.To safeguard drinking water supplies, officials were instructed to maximise water storage in reservoirs and other facilities and ensure proper chlorination. The Commissioner also directed them to clean drains, streams and culverts regularly, monitor manual and underground drainage systems, prevent sewage overflow and ensure that manhole covers were properly secured.GVMC personnel, including Assistant Engineers, Work Inspectors and sanitation workers, have been asked to work in three shifts until the cyclone's impact subsides, with staff remaining available in every zone to respond to emergencies. Published - October 27, 2026 08:22 pm IST