Vizagites Balance Beauty And Urgency Amid Montha’s Mood Swings
While Thotlakonda, Rushikonda and Sagar Nagar beaches have been temporarily closed due to high waves, many flocked to R.K. Beach and Tenneti Park viewpoint, eager to experience the cyclone’s spectacle
Visakhapatnam: With Cyclone Montha affecting coastal Andhra, the city of Visakhapatnam found itself in mixed emotions on Monday.
Along the Beach Road, residents and tourists embraced the wild beauty of the moment, capturing selfies against the stunning cloud formations, relishing the refreshing, salty breeze.
While Thotlakonda, Rushikonda and Sagar Nagar beaches have been temporarily closed due to high waves, many flocked to R.K. Beach and Tenneti Park viewpoint, eager to experience the cyclone’s spectacle.
Police and local authorities worked to ensure everyone's safety, guiding crowds to higher ground. With Kailasagiri and other parks shut, people made the best of the weather, taking rides along the coast whenever the rain allowed a brief pause.
“I brought my children to observe nature up close since the school is closed due to the cyclone,” said N. Ramana Rao, joining many others who gathered to witness the natural phenomenon with a sense of wonder.
Just a few metres away, a different scene emerged, filled with urgency and determination. As the city is preparing for the upcoming 30th Partnership Summit 2025, GVMC contract workers, clad in raincoats, pressed on despite the drizzle. They worked tirelessly to beautify roads and dividers, planting vibrant ornamental and flowering plants in empty spaces, clearing debris, and lining key corridors with lush saplings. Their steadfast work underscored GVMC's resolve to present a welcoming appearance to global delegates.
Yet, the preparations are not without challenges. Strong winds from the night before had uprooted trees in various areas, complicating traffic flow and slowing down vital civic work. Municipal teams reacted quickly, deploying cranes to clear the roads and restore order.
In the midst of this duality, Beach Road’s coffee and tea vendors did brisk business. “The weather may be unpredictable, but the energy here is uplifting,” remarked S. Ramesh, a café manager at RK Beach. “Whenever the rain stops, we see more visitors come in. Though tomorrow feels uncertain, we’re grateful for today’s sales.”
