Cyclone Montha Triggers Landslide Near Srisailam Temple
Cyclone Montha has wreaked havoc in Andhra Pradesh, causing a massive landslide near the sacred Srisailam Temple in Nandyal district. The late-night incident damaged nearby infrastructure, disrupted pilgrim access, and raised safety concerns as heavy rains persist. Authorities are assessing the destruction while rescue teams battle adverse conditions.
Landslide Details & Immediate Impact
Eyewitnesses described a thunderous collapse as rocks and mud tumbled down the hills near the Srikalahasti Gopuram, a key structure in the temple complex. The landslide blocked major roads, stranding pilgrims and forcing a temporary halt to temple visits. While no fatalities were reported, multiple vehicles were buried under debris.
The Srisailam Temple, one of India’s 12 Jyotirlingas, draws millions of devotees yearly. The landslide has heightened worries about the shrine’s structural stability amid ongoing monsoon rains and Cyclone Montha’s unpredictable trajectory.
Cyclone Montha’s Devastation Across Andhra
After forming over the Bay of Bengal, Cyclone Montha made landfall near Bapatla, unleashing torrential rains. Nandyal district recorded over 200 mm of rainfall in 24 hours, saturating soil and triggering landslides in hilly areas.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert, warning of “extremely heavy rainfall” and flash floods. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams are aiding relief efforts, though terrain challenges and poor visibility hinder progress.
Government Action & Relief Operations
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy directed officials to prioritize pilgrim safety and assess damage swiftly. A disaster management team is en route to inspect the temple’s stability.
Local authorities have restricted access to high-risk zones and diverted pilgrims to safer areas. Nandyal District Collector Manazir Samoon stated, “NDRF teams are clearing debris to restore roads.” The state announced compensation for affected families and set up emergency helplines and shelters.
Environmental Warnings & Future Risks
Environmental experts highlight the Eastern Ghats’ vulnerability, where deforestation and unchecked construction increase landslide risks. The temple’s location in the Nallamala Hills makes it especially prone to such disasters.
Dr. K. Anitha, a geologist at Andhra University, urged, “Sustainable development and better disaster preparedness are critical for these ecologically sensitive zones.” Advocates demand stricter hill-road regulations and advanced warning systems.
Pilgrims’ Experiences & Community Resilience
Despite the chaos, devotees remain steadfast. Survivors like Hyderabad pilgrim Ramesh Kumar shared, “We heard a roar before mud and rocks crashed down—it’s a miracle we escaped.”
Temple priests vow to resume rituals soon. Head priest Sri Venkateswara Shastri affirmed, “Srisailam’s divine power is unshakable; we’ll overcome this.”
What’s Next?
Cyclone Montha continues to threaten Andhra, with IMD forecasting more heavy rain. Officials urge low-lying residents to evacuate. The Srisailam landslide underscores the urgent need for improved disaster planning in sacred and high-risk areas.
Follow NextMinuteNews for live updates on Cyclone Montha’s aftermath.
— Reporting by NextMinuteNews Andhra Bureau
