Storms: 150 Trees Fall In Vizag; Power Sector Loss Estimated At Rs 10.98 lakh
Some trees tilted, while others fell. Two electric poles also fell due to the wind.
Visakhapatnam:The city was limping back on Friday from the disruptions caused by Thursday morning’s heavy rain and strong winds that reached speeds of 40 to 50 kmph here, causing widespread damage. Trees were uprooted, electric poles fell, and power supply was disrupted across several areas.
GVMC commissioner Ketan Garg said nearly 150 trees and bushes were either partially or fully uprooted in some 80 locations. Some trees tilted, while others fell. Two electric poles also fell due to the wind.
He said GVMC staff, guided by zonal commissioners, began the clearing operations immediately and ensured smooth traffic flow. The worst-hit areas were the Birla Junction service road near Circuit House and Navy House.
Teams from the horticulture, mechanical and public health departments joined hands to clear the debris. “The work was completed in 62 locations, and efforts are ongoing at 18 places. The fallen electric poles are being restored and trees and their branches have mostly been removed,” the commissioner said.
Residents have been asked to report rain-related problems to GVMC zonal offices or call the toll-free number 1800 4250 0009.
APEPDCL said the damage to the power supply system in Visakhapatnam was estimated at `10.98 lakh. According to Visakhapatnam circle superintendent engineer Shyambabu, 39 out of 95 feeders of 33KV and 120 out of 574 feeders of 11KV were damaged. As many as 65 poles from both 33kv and 11kv lines fell in the impact of the falling trees and their branches.
People have been advised to report power-related issues to the toll-free number 1912.