Godavari: Residents remove an uprooted tree following Cyclone Arnab in Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh on Wednesday, October 28, 2026. (Photo: IANS)
Amaravati : Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu stated on Thursday that seven people have died in Andhra Pradesh due to Cyclone ‘Arnab’, with preliminary estimates indicating a loss of Rs 4,600 crore.
Following an aerial survey of the affected areas, he noted that while the current estimate of the damage stands at Rs 4,600 crore, this figure could rise following a more detailed assessment.
The Chief Minister mentioned that he had spoken with Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the damage caused by the cyclone, briefed him on the situation and the measures taken by the state government, and submitted a preliminary report on the losses to the Centre.
He announced that central teams would visit the state on Friday to assess the damage caused by the cyclone, which made landfall on Wednesday.
The Chief Minister conducted an aerial survey of the cyclone-affected areas in the B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema district, inspected relief centers in Gachakayalapora village, and interacted with the victims to understand their concerns. Later, while addressing the media, he provided details on the relief and reconstruction efforts being undertaken by the government.
The CM stated that he had personally visited the affected areas to take stock of the ground reality. He announced that compensation of Rs 1,500 would be provided for each damaged coconut or palm tree.
Families returning from relief camps will be provided with 25 kg of rice, a kit containing essential commodities, and financial assistance to cover immediate expenses.
Chief Minister Naidu noted that farmers are already covered under the crop insurance scheme and will receive compensation for any loss in crop yield caused by the cyclone. He added that, following a formal assessment of the damage, compensation for agricultural and horticultural crops would be credited directly to the beneficiaries’ bank accounts as soon as possible. The Chief Minister stated that Andhra Pradesh has faced numerous cyclones in the past. Thirty years ago, on November 6, a severe cyclone caused massive devastation in this region. Cyclones such as Hudhud, Titli, Amphan, and others have also inflicted damage on the state. Approximately 70 years ago, the Diviseema cyclone claimed thousands of lives.
He said, “Drawing lessons from past disasters, we implemented precautionary measures and significantly minimized the loss of life and property. Despite all precautions, seven lives were unfortunately lost, which is deeply saddening. The government machinery was placed on high alert, and constant communication was maintained with District Collectors, Superintendents of Police, and other officials.”
The Konaseema and West Godavari districts were the most severely affected. Since last night, efforts have been underway to clear fallen trees and restore road connectivity.
The Chief Minister added, “We monitored the situation from Srikakulam to Krishna district and coordinated relief operations through the Real-Time Governance Society (RTGS). We are working to minimize inconvenience to the public and restore telecommunication services. In Konaseema district alone, approximately 8,000 electricity poles have fallen. All damaged poles will be replaced, and power supply will be restored as quickly as possible.”
Naidu mentioned that a request has been made to the Telangana government to send 1,000 electricity department personnel to assist with restoration efforts. If necessary, teams will also be brought in from Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. While speaking with those affected by the cyclone, the Chief Minister noted that officials worked day and night to ensure minimal disruption for the public. Around 30,000 officials were deployed, and various precautionary measures were implemented to mitigate the loss of life and property.
