Normal life in East Godavari district hit due to cyclone

Normal life has been badly affected in Andhra Pradesh’s East Godvari district due to heavy rains and strong winds caused by cyclone `Laila’

The air, train and bus services were thrown out of gear in the district. A Rajahmundry-Hyderabad Kingfisher flight returned to Andhra Pradesh capital without landing here today in view of inclement weather conditions, officials said.

Several air passengers have cancelled their tickets for the next two days, airline sources said.

A number of trains passing through the district are running late due to submergence of rail tracks at several places. Road traffic has been disrupted due to uprooting of trees and electric poles.

The coastal district experienced heavy rains last evening, but there was some relief as downpour stopped this morning. Several areas were plunged into darkness and communication systems snapped.

Collector M Ravichandra said the cyclonic storm was likely to cross Kakinada at 1800 hrs. He said the situation is being monitored regularly and all precautionary steps have been taken to deal with any eventuality.

The government has appointed a Special Officer, J S V Prasad, to coordinate with the district administration in relief and rescue operations.