Vijayawada Division Gears Up for Cyclone “Montha”

 

Vijayawada Division, South Central Railway, has initiated comprehensive preparedness measures to tackle the potential impact of Cyclone Montha, which is likely to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast between Machilipatnam and Kakinada around the evening of 28th October as a severe cyclonic storm with wind speeds of up to 100-110 kmph.

Shri Sanjay Kumar Srivastava, General Manager, South Central Railway, on his visit to Vijayawada today, i.e., 27th October 2025, took stock of the preparedness in a meeting held at the Divisional Conference Hall at the DRM Office. Shri Mohit Sonakiya, Divisional Railway Manager, Vijayawada Division briefed the General Manager on the steps being taken to tackle Cyclone Montha. Shri Srinivas Malladi, DGM Coordination and Secretary to GM; Smt. K. Padmaja, Principal Chief Operations Manager, South Central Railway, and all branch officers from the Division attended the meeting.

All departments of the Division – Operating, Engineering, Electrical, Mechanical, Commercial, and Medical – have been placed on high alert to ensure the safety of passengers, staff, and railway assets. Control rooms are being manned round-the-clock by officers and supervisors to closely monitor train operations, bridge conditions, and water levels at vulnerable locations.

Patrolling teams have been deployed to monitor tracks, bridges, and other critical infrastructure. Monsoon reserves comprising men, materials, and machinery are ready to be mobilised in case of any emergency. Diesel locomotives and mobile rescue teams (MRTs) have been positioned strategically to ensure continuity of essential operations even in the event of traction failures.

Passenger safety and convenience are being prioritised. Help Desks and 24x7 PRS refund counters have been set up at key stations, including Vijayawada, Rajahmundry, Kakinada Town, Bhimavaram, and Tenali. Adequate food and water supplies have been ensured at catering units and railway colonies. Medical teams, ambulances, and first-aid centres are on standby to respond promptly to any eventuality.

In coordination with the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA), the Division has strengthened communication channels and established close liaisons with district administrations to facilitate real-time updates and joint responses.

Speaking on the preparedness, Shri Sanjay Kumar Srivastava, IRMS, General Manager, South Central Railway, said, “We must be prepared for any contingency and remain agile to change plans as the situation evolves. The safety of passengers, our staff, and their families is of utmost importance. Our system is robust, capable, and backed by an experienced team that has consistently delivered in testing times. I am confident that we will rise to the occasion and perform to the best of our abilities.”

The Vijayawada Division continues to review weather bulletins and operational parameters closely, ready to act swiftly and ensure safe, uninterrupted service as far as possible under prevailing conditions.

SCR BZA PR No.148
Date: 27th October 2025