Bhubaneswar: Cyclone Arnab has disrupted educational activities and railway services in Odisha as authorities step up precautionary measures ahead of the approaching storm. Schools and Anganwadi centres in four districts have been ordered to close temporarily, while eight trains have been cancelled due to concerns over adverse weather conditions.
Railway authorities have also curtailed the services of the Hirakhand Express, with trains operating only up to Rayagada instead of their usual destinations. The measures aim to minimise risks to passengers, students and the public as preparations continue for the possible impact of the cyclone.
Schools and Anganwadi Centres Closed in Four Districts
District administrations in Nabarangpur, Rayagada, Koraput and Ganjam have announced temporary closures of schools and Anganwadi centres as a precautionary measure.
In Nabarangpur and Rayagada, educational institutions and Anganwadi centres will remain closed on Tuesday and October 28. The district collectors have announced the holidays in view of the anticipated weather conditions.
However, teachers and other staff members have been directed to remain present at their respective institutions despite the closure.
In Koraput and Ganjam, schools and Anganwadi centres will remain closed from October 27 to 29. The decision has been taken to ensure the safety of students and children ahead of the expected cyclone-related weather conditions.
Eight Trains Cancelled Due to Cyclone Alert
Railway authorities have cancelled eight train services because of Cyclone Arnab and the possibility of adverse weather along the affected routes. The cancellations include passenger and express services connecting Visakhapatnam, Koraput and Kirandul.
Passengers travelling on these routes have been advised to check the latest railway announcements before leaving for their destinations.
The affected services and cancellation dates are as follows:
| Train service | Train number | Cancellation period |
|---|---|---|
| Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Night Express | 18515 | October 29 to November 4 |
| Kirandul–Visakhapatnam Night Express | 18516 | October 29 to November 4 |
| Visakhapatnam–Koraput Passenger | 58538 | October 27 to 30 |
| Koraput–Visakhapatnam Passenger | 58537 | October 28 to 31 |
| Visakhapatnam–Koraput Intercity Express | 18512 | October 30 |
| Koraput–Visakhapatnam Intercity Express | 18511 | October 31 |
| Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Passenger | 58501 | October 27 to 30 |
| Kirandul–Visakhapatnam Passenger | 58502 | October 27 to 30 |
The cancellation of these services is expected to affect passengers travelling between Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and destinations along the railway routes.
Hirakhand Express Services Curtailed Up to Rayagada
In addition to the cancellations, railway authorities have curtailed the services of the Hirakhand Express. Instead of running to their usual destinations, the trains will operate only up to Rayagada during the affected period.
The Bhubaneswar–Jagdalpur Hirakhand Express (Train No. 18447) will be short-terminated at Rayagada from October 27 to 30.
Meanwhile, the Jagdalpur–Bhubaneswar Hirakhand Express (Train No. 18448) will be short-originated from Rayagada from October 28 to 31 instead of starting its journey from Koraput.
These changes mean that passengers travelling to or from stations beyond Rayagada may need to revise their travel plans. Travellers should confirm the revised train schedule and stopping arrangements with railway authorities before beginning their journeys.
Authorities Take Precautionary Measures Ahead of Cyclone
The temporary closure of educational institutions and the cancellation or curtailment of train services form part of precautionary measures being taken ahead of the possible cyclone.
District administrations are monitoring the situation and issuing instructions based on anticipated weather conditions. The railway changes are intended to manage potential disruptions and reduce risks to passengers.
Residents in potentially affected districts should follow official weather updates and local administration advisories. Passengers should check the latest information from Indian Railways before travelling, as train schedules and operational decisions may change depending on the cyclone’s movement.
