Cyclone Arnab Hits Andhra, Odisha Floods Worsen; Congress Reacts

New Delhi, October 30: Cyclone Arnab has caused major destruction in Andhra Pradesh, while heavy rain and floods have worsened conditions in Odisha. Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra reacted on Friday, expressing concern and urging party workers to assist affected residents.

The situation in both states has drawn attention as rescue and relief efforts continue. Congress leaders have called for coordinated support from workers and the government.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra posted on X to show solidarity with people affected by the cyclone and bad weather in both states. She asked Congress workers to take part in relief and rescue operations.

Her message read, "My condolences are with those suffering the devastation of Cyclone 'Arnab' in Andhra Pradesh and those affected by heavy rain and floods in Odisha. I pray for the safety of all. I request Congress workers to help affected people in every possible way and to support relief and rescue efforts."

Kharge also mourned the loss of life and property in Andhra Pradesh and the disruption of normal life in Odisha due to the cyclone. He asked the Union government to take relief and rehabilitation steps together with state governments and to make sure affected families receive help.

In his X post, Kharge stated, "I am very saddened by the loss of lives in Andhra Pradesh and the large-scale disruption of life in Odisha due to Cyclone 'Arnab'. My deepest condolences to the grieving families. The Union government should carry out coordinated relief and rehabilitation efforts with state governments and ensure timely support to all affected families through the PM CARES Fund. I urge Congress workers to help those in trouble in every possible way."

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said on Thursday that the cyclone had claimed seven lives in the state. He said losses were estimated at around Rs 4,600 crore.

Following an aerial survey of cyclone-affected areas, the Chief Minister said the preliminary estimate of damage was Rs 4,600 crore. He added that the figure could rise after a detailed assessment.

Naidu also said he had spoken to Union Home Minister Amit Shah about the cyclone's impact. He shared information on the present situation and the steps taken by the state government, and submitted a preliminary report on the damage to the Centre.

Meanwhile, the Odisha government has accelerated rescue and relief operations in Ganjam and Gajapati districts after flooding caused by unusually heavy rain linked to the cyclone.