In the view of a heavy rain alert issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD-Amaravati Weather Centre), Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) Commissioner Ketan Garg directed all departments of the corporation to take immediate precautionary measures. He also directed zonal commissioners, engineers and staff at ward secretariats to remain alert for prompt relief measures.
In a release, Mr. Ketan Garg said that as per the weather warning, moderate to heavy rains are expected across the State over the next three days. In view of the possibility of heavy rains, thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds in Visakhapatnam, the GVMC is taking necessary preparedness and risk reduction measures.
The measures include identifying dilapidated buildings; preparing strong community halls and school buildings as emergency rehabilitation shelters for vulnerable residents of hill slopes, low-lying areas and slums; and clearing drainage lines, manholes and waterlogging points.
He also said that the staff were alerted to ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply and preventing water contamination. He also asked them to take up immediate repair works of damaged streetlights and clearance of uprooted trees. He asked the personnel to identify and removing weak and dilapidated hoardings.
The Commissioner also asked the officials to coordinate with the Fire Service department, in case of fire-related emergencies and ensure the availability of vehicles, generators, tree-cutting equipment, JCBs, trucks, fuel and communication radio handsets for emergency operations.
The GVMC has set up a Control Room at the City Operations Centre, GVMC Head Office as an emergency help centre. Citizens facing any problems may contact the GVMC toll-free number 1800-4250-0009 or their respective Zonal Offices, he said.
Published – August 16, 2025 09:10 pm IST
