Cyclone ‘Montha’ Triggers Widespread Train Cancellations And Delays In Andhra Pradesh: Over Forty Key Routes Affected, And Here’s What You Need To Know

Due to the impending cyclone ‘Montha’ threat, safety measures have been imposed, leading to the suspension of over 40 important train services, and the remaining are being reorganized as per the circumstances. Since Andhra’s coastal regions, especially Visakhapatnam and Kakinada, are predicted to receive 90-110 km/h winds and torrential rains, stopping the storm-affected trains mostly prone to cancellations and disruptions is the rational decision of the railway authorities. This has widely affected the Indian East Coast regions with major city/train junctions and towns suffering from the chain cancellations and even delays. Passengers are requested to know the most recent alterations regarding their journey and adjust their expectations accordingly, as these alterations are set to persist. Here’s what? to help you get through these disruptions.

In anticipation of Cyclone ‘Montha’, the East Coast Railway has announced the cancellation of 43 trains originating from or passing through coastal Andhra Pradesh. This move comes as the cyclone is expected to make landfall near Kakinada on Tuesday night, with winds reaching 90-110 km/h and heavy rainfall predicted for multiple districts. The cancellations are part of the precautionary measures to ensure the safety of passengers and train operations during adverse weather conditions.

Details of the Cancellations

The East Coast Railway has confirmed the cancellation of several key trains scheduled for October 27, 28, and 29. Passengers who were set to travel on these trains are advised to check for further updates and make alternate travel arrangements where necessary. The following are some of the major cancellations:

• Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Express (18515), scheduled for departure on Monday, has been cancelled.
• Kirandul-Visakhapatnam (18516), scheduled for Tuesday, has also been cancelled.
• Visakhapatnam-Kirandul Passenger (58501) and Kirandul-Visakhapatnam Passenger (58502) have been cancelled.
• Visakhapatnam-Koraput Passenger (58538) and Visakhapatnam-Koraput Express (18512), along with their pairing trains, are cancelled.

Other notable cancellations include:

• Rajahmundry-Visakhapatnam MEMU (67285) and its pairing train.
• Visakhapatnam-Kakinada Port Express (17268) and its pairing train.
• Visakhapatnam-Tirupati (08583) and its pairing train.
• Visakhapatnam-Guntur Double Decker (22875) and Visakhapatnam-Tirupati Double Decker (22707).

Additionally, the following long-distance and regional trains have also been cancelled:

• Visakhapatnam-Machilipatnam Express (17220)
• Visakhapatnam-Hyderabad (12727)
• Visakhapatnam-Mahabubnagar Superfast Express (12861) and its return journey.
• Visakhapatnam-Chennai Central Superfast Weekly (22869)
• Visakhapatnam-Secunderabad (12739)

These cancellations impact a wide range of routes, with several major cities, including Visakhapatnam, Guntur, and Hyderabad, seeing disruptions in train services.

Impact on Local Travel and Safety Precautions

The South Central Railway has also announced that it may cancel or reschedule certain trains to and from Andhra Pradesh due to the cyclone’s potential impact. Passengers planning to travel in the affected areas are urged to remain alert for updates.

In light of the severe weather conditions, the state administration is on high alert. The cyclone ‘Montha’ is expected to bring extremely heavy rainfall and strong winds across several districts in Andhra Pradesh, including Visakhapatnam, Kakinada, and Rajahmundry. As the cyclone is forecasted to make landfall on Tuesday night, authorities are focusing on ensuring the safety of residents and travelers alike.

The government has appealed to people to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel until official all-clear instructions are given. The general public is urged to follow emergency guidelines and stay informed through official channels.

Cyclone Montha’s Expected Impact

Cyclone Montha is a formidable weather system, and its effects are expected to be widespread. The cyclone is likely to bring:

• Winds of 90–110 km/h, creating potentially hazardous conditions.
• Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, with the possibility of flash floods in vulnerable areas.
• Coastal areas at high risk, particularly near Visakhapatnam and Kakinada.

In preparation for these conditions, the railway authorities have acted swiftly to cancel trains to minimize risks to passengers and train operations. These cancellations are crucial in maintaining the safety of travelers, as the safety of those onboard and the integrity of the railway infrastructure are the primary concerns during such extreme weather events.

Travel Alternatives and Recommendations

For passengers affected by the cancellations, there are several alternative travel options available. Travelers can consider road transport or air travel, especially for long-distance journeys. Many bus services operate between major cities in Andhra Pradesh, providing an option for those unable to travel by train.

The civil aviation sector has also seen an uptick in demand, and flights from Visakhapatnam, Hyderabad, and Chennai may offer alternate routes for those who need to reach their destinations urgently. Passengers are advised to confirm availability and schedule changes with airlines in advance.

Additionally, travelers can stay updated on the East Coast Railway website or through the Indian Railways helpline for the latest information regarding train services.

As Cyclone Montha approaches the Andhra Pradesh coast, the East Coast Railway and local authorities are taking proactive steps to ensure public safety. While the cancellations may cause inconvenience to travelers, the safety measures are necessary to prevent accidents and protect passengers.

Cyclone ‘Montha’ has caused significant train cancellations and delays in Andhra Pradesh. More than forty major routes have been impacted by cancellations. Due to the approaching severe weather which includes high winds and rains, the East Coast Railway has also halted services for passenger safety.

These conditions are dynamic and all travelers are advised to remain vigilant and be prepared to alter plans. It is the responsibility of travelers and the general public to keep to official guidelines in the coming days where extreme weather is a reality, and to make sure that travel plans are flexible in the midst of the storm.

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