SCR issues travel advisory as Cyclone Arnab approaches

Hyderabad: The South Central Railway (SCR) has issued a travel advisory for passengers in view of Cyclone Arnab, with heavy rainfall and a red alert expected in several Telangana districts on October 28.

The cyclone is likely to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, near Yanam, on the forenoon of October 28 as a very severe cyclonic storm.

The weather department has issued a red alert for Khammam, Bhadradri Kothagudem, Mulugu and Mahabubabad districts, while heavy rainfall is forecast in Warangal, Hanumakonda, Suryapet and Nalgonda on October 28 and 29.

The SCR has warned that train services in the affected sections may be cancelled, diverted or rescheduled depending on weather conditions. Meanwhile, SCR General Manager Sanjay Kumar Srivastava reviewed preparedness measures.

Safety arrangements at vulnerable railway bridges and sections, track patrolling, water levels and the deployment of emergency equipment were reviewed. Also, accident relief trains and medical equipment have been kept ready at Kazipet and Dornakal.

Passengers were advised to check train status before starting their journeys through the IRCTC, RailOne and NTES platforms or by calling 139. Updates on cancellations, diversions and rescheduling will also be communicated through SMS to passengers with reserved tickets and through railway social media channels and the official SCR website.