Cyclone Murasu causes deaths and crop damage in Andhra Pradesh
At least two people died as Cyclone Murasu hit the coast near Ongole, damaging over 52,000 hectares of crops.
Cyclone Murasu crossed the Andhra Pradesh coast near Ongole between 3.30 am and 5.30 am on Tuesday, according to reports by Deccan Herald. At least two people died in incidents related to the cyclone, an official said.
The storm caused damage to 52,459 hectares of crops, with Krishna, Bapatla and Nandyal districts being the hardest hit. Preliminary assessments estimate monetary losses at approximately Rs 344 crore, according to Deccan Herald.
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu conducted an aerial survey of affected areas in Guntur, Prakasam and Bapatla districts on Wednesday, according to Urban Acres. The survey included locations such as Chilakaluripeta, Ongole, Kothapatnam, Chinnaganjam, Chirala and Bapatla.
The state government has sought immediate central assistance of over Rs 4,500 crore, according to Urban Acres. Naidu appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for support after roads and power infrastructure were impacted.
The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) stated that 12,230 people are currently in rehabilitation centres. The cyclone's impact exceeded normal levels in 132 mandals across 15 districts, with gusty winds of up to 107 km/h recorded at Dornala in Markapuram district, according to Deccan Herald.