AP Energy Minister directs power utilities to ensure 48-hour restoration after cyclone
Reviewing the preparedness of the Energy Department through a teleconference with chairmen and managing directors, directors and senior officials of power distribution companies, he stressed the need to prevent electrical accidents, minimise damage to infrastructure and ensure uninterrupted essential services.
He directed officials in South Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema districts to keep adequate manpower, equipment and emergency response teams ready to deal with possible disruptions.
The Minister said safeguarding human lives should remain the foremost priority and instructed officials to prepare comprehensive contingency plans for speedy restoration of power supply.
He asked CMDs to personally visit vulnerable areas, monitor preparedness and supervise restoration operations.
Special officers should be appointed for districts likely to face severe cyclone impact to ensure prompt decision-making.
He also directed officials to identify and remove hazardous tree branches hanging over electricity lines to prevent damage to poles and conductors and avoid electrical accidents.
Emphasising advance logistical arrangements, Ravi Kumar instructed power utilities to maintain sufficient stocks of electricity poles, conductors, transformers, cables and other essential materials.
Adequate technical personnel, vehicles and specialised equipment should also be kept ready.
Additional manpower and machinery could be mobilised from neighbouring States, including Tamil Nadu and Telangana, if required. Restoration teams should be strategically deployed and shifted to other affected locations after completing repairs in one area, he said.
The Minister directed power distribution companies to operate the 1912 electricity helpline round the clock throughout the cyclone period to receive complaints and coordinate emergency responses.
He urged people to report snapped power lines, fallen poles and other electrical hazards immediately through the helpline or the nearest electricity office.
He cautioned the public against touching fallen wires or approaching damaged electrical installations and advised residents to stay indoors during strong winds and thunderstorms unless travel was essential.
He also stressed coordination among electricity utilities, the Revenue Department, village and ward secretariats and other government agencies to ensure an effective response to cyclone-related emergencies.
During the teleconference, the Minister reviewed electricity restoration works in areas affected by Cyclone Arnab and directed officials to expedite pending repairs while strengthening preparedness for Cyclone Murasu.
He instructed senior officials to remain vigilant, maintain continuous communication with district administrations and ensure that public safety and restoration of essential services received priority.
