Cyclone Arnab: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw Ensures Safety Measures Ahead of Landfall

As Cyclone Arnab approaches, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has confirmed that extensive safety measures are in place across key railway divisions. With the storm expected to make landfall on October 28, the minister emphasized the importance of passenger safety and outlined the operational readiness of relief resources. Continuous monitoring and coordination with disaster response teams are underway to ensure swift action during the cyclone's impact. Read on to learn more about the preparations and safety protocols being implemented.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 27, 2026, 15:12 IST

Preparedness for Cyclone Arnab

New Delhi: On Tuesday, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw conducted a review of the preparations for the impending tropical cyclone 'Arnab', which is anticipated to make landfall on October 28. He confirmed that safety protocols and rapid restoration strategies are established in the Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam divisions.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that the severe cyclonic storm Arnab is likely to hit the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts near Yanam, specifically between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, by the morning of October 28.

Vaishnaw mentioned that war rooms are operational at the Zonal, Divisional, and Board levels, with continuous monitoring in progress, as shared in a social media update.

Ensuring passenger safety remains the highest priority, with approximately 600 kilometers of railway track being closely monitored. Relief wagons equipped with repair materials are strategically stationed at locations including Krishna Canal, Bitragunta, Mamidipudi, Visakhapatnam, Palasa, and Ponduru.

Additionally, diesel locomotives, power units, and ambulances are on standby at critical junctions, while earthmovers, tree cutters, and restoration equipment are positioned at short intervals.

Wind speeds and water levels are being assessed hourly, with senior officials present on-site. Coordination efforts with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Authorities are actively ongoing, as stated by the Railway Minister.