Cyclone Arnab: 609 Andhra schools turn into relief shelters

As Cyclone Arnab made landfall, 609 Andhra Pradesh schools were transformed into relief shelters for residents. On October 27, 2026, the Andhra Pradesh School Education Department activated 609 school campuses across 16 coastal districts to accommodate those affected by the cyclone. Additionally, 17,054 volunteers from the National Cadet Corps, National Service Scheme, and Scouts were mobilized to support the relief efforts.

The department closely monitored 58,616 schools in 28 districts, serving a total of 2,22,904 staff members and nearly 69.6 lakh students. Holidays were declared in 16 coastal districts as a precaution, and instructions were given to District and Mandal Educational Officers to ensure the safety of students and staff. Control rooms with designated nodal officers were established in every District Educational Officer office to coordinate preparedness and emergency response around the clock.

The department also inspected vulnerable schools and flagged 544 weak structures for potential structural collapse. Drinking water, food supplies, first-aid kits, and other essential emergency materials were stocked at relief shelters. The Andhra Pradesh School Education Department collaborated with other departments, including Revenue, Police, Health, Fire, and Electricity, to ensure an effective response to any emergency.