On 3 November 2026, Cyclone Murasu struck the coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh, causing two deaths, extensive crop loss (over 52,000 hectares), and displacing more than 12,000 people. In response, the state government activated a real‑time digital grievance platform to streamline relief operations.
Key Developments
- The RTGS launched a dedicated Mana Mitra helpline (WhatsApp No. 9552300009) for cyclone‑related grievances.
- Citizens can report power cuts, uprooted trees, water‑logging, collapsed walls, and other emergencies by sending a simple "Hi" and following the menu prompts.
- The APSDMA reported 12,230 people sheltering in rehabilitation centres.
- The IMD downgraded Murasu from a Severe Cyclonic Storm to a Cyclonic Storm by 2:30 pm, with sustained winds of 80‑90 km/h and gusts up to 100 km/h.
- Heavy rainfall continued, prompting flash‑flood alerts for Bapatla, Palnadu, Guntur and surrounding districts.
Important Facts
• Landfall was expected around 5:30 am on 3 Nov 2026; the storm moved north‑northwest at ~7 km/h.
• The centre of the storm was about 40 km west‑northwest of Bapatla, 60 km north of Ongole, and 80 km southwest of Vijayawada.
• Rainfall records: Bapatla recorded 182.25 mm (8.30 am‑2 pm), the highest in the state; 18 rain gauges crossed the 100 mm mark.
• Crop damage: 52,459 hectares affected, threatening food security in the region.
• Two fatalities were confirmed; many more injuries were reported.
Exam Relevance
Understanding the integration of technology in disaster management is crucial for disaster management (GS2). The case illustrates how digital platforms like Mana Mitra can bridge the gap between administration and affected populations, a model relevant for future policy design.
Way Forward
- Scale the WhatsApp grievance model to other states for rapid response during emergencies.
- Strengthen coordination between APSDMA, RTGS, and local bodies to ensure timely relief distribution.
- Invest in resilient infrastructure, especially drainage and flood‑control channels, as highlighted by the Amaravati Development Corporation’s field inspection.
- Enhance early‑warning dissemination through IMD and community outreach to reduce loss of life.
By leveraging real‑time digital tools and robust inter‑agency coordination, Andhra Pradesh aims to mitigate the impact of Cyclone Murasu and set a precedent for disaster governance in India.