India

Cyclone Murasu Causes Extensive Damage in Andhra Pradesh, CM Naidu Thanks Central Support

By PTI

Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh – Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu thanked the central government for its prompt support and solidarity during the severe cyclonic storm Murasu, which has damaged standing crops across thousands of acres in 15 districts and disrupted normal life. Naidu said the state machinery was working in close coordination with central teams to carry out rescue and relief operations and clear roads. In a post on X, he replied to a message from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, expressing gratitude for the centre’s assistance and stating that rescue, relief and road‑clearing were being executed without delay. "Together, we will ensure absolute safety and swift recovery across Andhra Pradesh," the TDP chief added.

Shah had earlier spoken to Naidu by phone, assessed the impact of the cyclone and assured him of every possible assistance from the centre. He noted that National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams were already on the ground, helping those affected. Shah said the Government of India stands with the people of Andhra Pradesh and is prepared to respond to any situation.

The severe cyclonic storm Murasu left a trail of destruction along the Andhra Pradesh coast, uprooting thousands of trees, damaging hundreds of electric poles and wrecking fishing boats as it crossed the coast early on Tuesday. Bapatla and Prakasam districts experienced heavy rainfall and gusty winds, damaging standing crops and inundating several areas. Vehicles were stranded on national highways as motorists struggled to navigate through poor visibility caused by heavy rain and strong winds, disrupting traffic and leaving commuters stranded.

According to the Meteorological Department, the storm crossed the south Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narasapur, near Ongole, between 3.30 am and 5.30 am on Tuesday, with winds of 100‑110 km/h and gusts reaching 120 km/h.