Cyclone Arnab Trains Halted: 42 Services Canceled, Vande Bharat Affected

Cyclone Arnab has forced Indian Railways to cancel 42 trains, including two Vande Bharat Express services, between October 29 and November 1. The cancellations affect routes in Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal, with 70 other services also disrupted by heavy rainfall and high water levels.

South Coast Railway reports that water levels at Bridge No. 1052 between Ichchapuram and Jhadupudi stations have risen above the danger mark, prompting a reduction in train services in the Visakhapatnam Division. To mitigate passenger inconvenience, an unscheduled special train has been introduced between Visakhapatnam and Palasa.

The railways have set up passenger help desks at Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, Srikakulam Road, Palasa, Ichchapuram and other major stations to provide information and assistance to stranded travelers. Drinking water, food and essential facilities are also being offered to affected passengers.

Affected trains include long‑distance services such as the Brahmapur‑Visakhapatnam Express, Visakhapatnam‑Bhubaneswar Intercity Express, and the Jagdalpur‑Bhubaneswar Express, among others. Several express and mail services to major cities like Chennai, Howrah and Mumbai have also been canceled or diverted.

The railways have arranged alternative routes for 41 trains, primarily through Vizianagaram, Titlagarh, Sambalpur and Jharsuguda, skipping usual coastal stops. Passengers are advised to check the National Train Enquiry System or dial 139 for updates.