The Bapatla district administration stepped up preparedness to tackle Cyclone Murasu as heavy rainfall is expected. District Collector Dr. Vinod Kumar V. said, "The administration and residents should remain vigilant." Officials are now using sandbags to strengthen vulnerable drains and canals to prevent flooding across the district during the storm.
The Bapatla district administration has stepped up preparedness to tackle Cyclone Murasu, with heavy rainfall expected across the district and substantial inflows from neighbouring Guntur, Palnadu, Prakasam and Markapuram regions. District Collector Dr. Vinod Kumar V. has directed officials to take all precautionary measures to prevent loss of life and property.
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Rainfall of 100 mm to 120 mm was expected in Chirala and mandals adjoining the erstwhile Prakasam district, while heavy rain was likely across the district up to Repalle. The Collector urged people to remain vigilant and strictly follow safety advisories issued by the authorities.
He said heavy rainfall was also expected in Guntur, Palnadu, Markapuram and Prakasam regions. Rainwater from these areas would flow through drains and canals across Bapatla district before reaching the sea, increasing the pressure on the district's drainage network.
Consequently, the administration and residents should remain vigilant not only during the two days of heavy rainfall but also for the next four to five days, he cautioned.
As part of the preventive measures, officials were strengthening vulnerable stretches of drains and canals with sandbags. Other obstructions near bridges and crossings were being removed using machinery to ensure the smooth flow of rainwater and prevent flooding.