North Andhra Ready For ZPTC, MPTC Polls; Elaborate Arrangements In Place
In Visakhapatnam district, polling will be held in Anandapuram, Bheemunipatnam, Padmanabham and Pendurthi mandals for four ZPTC and 53 MPTC seats.
YSRCP demands free, fair polling for MPTCs, ZPTCs in Andhra Pradesh
Digital Desk | Vijayawada, Nov 4 (IANS) The YSR Congress Party on Wednesday demanded mandatory CCTV surveillance, videography and webcasting at every polling station during the polling for MPTC and ZPTC elections scheduled for Thursday in Andhra Pradesh. It warned the State Election Commission against allowing a repetition of the widespread irregularities witnessed in the municipal elections. Polling for Mandal Parishad Territorial Constituencies (MPTCs) and Zilla Parishad Territorial Constituencies (ZPTCs) is scheduled across the state on Thursday. A delegation led by YSRCP State General Secretary and MLC Lella Appireddy, accompanied by Legal Cell State President Manohar Reddy, Employees and Pensioners Wing State President Nalamaaru Chandrasekhar Reddy and Grievance Cell President Narayana Murthy, submitted a representation to the State Election Commissioner. Speaking to the media, Appireddy said Chandrababu Naidu's coalition government had murdered democracy by misusing police and revenue officials from nominations and scrutiny to polling and counting. Candidates were prevented from filing nominations, eliminated during scrutiny, and subjected to intimidation and rigging. Where YSRCP candidates secured leads, counting was halted and results manipulated through recounting. He cited irregularities in Eluru, Dhone, Salur, Guntur, Ongole, Nuzvid and Palamaneru, along with discrepancies in polling percentages in Ongole and Visakhapatnam. Appireddy demanded immediate preservation of CCTV footage and ballot papers from counting centres, announcing legal action against officials, police personnel and the Election Commission for electoral violations. He declared that the coalition government's downfall had begun and warned officials to discharge their constitutional duties impartially. He also demanded an end to politically motivated bind-over proceedings, arrests and house arrests. Nalamaaru Chandrasekhar Reddy said YSRCP had submitted nearly 15 complaints and representations, including video evidence on pen drives, without any meaningful action from the SEC. He questioned recounting exercises despite substantial YSRCP leads in Nandikotkur, Ongole and other areas, stating that recounting cannot become a tool for manipulating results. He demanded adequate protection for opposition candidates, an end to police intimidation and strict safeguards to ensure free and fair MPTC and ZPTC elections.
Visakhapatnam railway station redevelopment gains pace
Andhra Pradesh cautions youth against lucrative job offers in Russian army
In an alert, the government advises job-seekers to verify visa details, job contracts, and legitimacy of the recruitment agencies through official channels, and report any suspicious offers to the police or relevant authorities
Mukka Sravani set to become new Mayor of Vizag; YSRCP begins internal post-mortem
Celebrate Diwali with Abundant Blessings at Visakhapatnam
Experience the divine presence of Goddess Lakshmi at Kanaka Mahalakshmi Temple this Diwali, a hub of devotion and prosperity. Celebrate Diwali with Abundant Blessings at Visakhapatnams Kanaka Mahalakshmi Temple
TDP-led NDA sweeps municipal elections in Andhra Pradesh
Digital Desk | Amaravati, Nov 3 (IANS) The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Andhra Pradesh has made a clean sweep of municipal elections, capturing power in almost all Urban Local Bodies. The results and counting trends on Tuesday night show that the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and its allies, the Jana Sena Party (JSP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), have bagged the posts of mayors in seven municipal corporations. The mayoral candidates of NDA partners were leading in five corporations. The opposition YSR Congress Party was leading in one corporation. TDP and its allies also bagged the posts of chairpersons of 73 municipalities and nagar panchayats and were ahead in eight places. YSRCP won the post of chairperson in a municipality, while others were elected in two places. YSRCP candidates were leading in two municipalities. The coalition had also bagged the majority of the posts of corporators and councillors. The counting of votes polled on Sunday in 92 urban local bodies (ULBs) began at 138 counting centres at 8 a.m. on Tuesday. Polling was held on Sunday in 13 municipal corporations and 79 of the 87 municipalities and nagar panchayats. According to the State Election Commission, 62.16 per cent polling was recorded. Out of 96,89,061 voters, 60,22,411 cast their votes. Mukka Sravani of TDP has been elected Mayor of Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation, the biggest municipal corporation in the state. M. Srinivas Prasad of TDP has been elected mayor of Tirupati Municipal Corporation. K. Lakshmi Aparna, also of TDP, has been elected mayor of Guntur. TDPs K. Hemalatha emerged victorious in the election for mayor in Chittoor Municipal Corporation. Sheikh Abdullah Abida of TDP was declared elected as mayor of Machilipatnam. TDP candidate Vijaya Pratyusha has been elected mayor of Kurnool. Jana Sena candidate Reddy Appalanaidu has been elected mayor of Eluru Municipal Corporation in West Godavari district. Elections for the posts of chairpersons of 17 municipalities and nagar panchayats were unanimous. Both chairpersons and ward members were elected unopposed in eight municipalities and nagar panchayats. As part of the seat-sharing agreement among NDA partners, TDP contested for the mayor posts in 10 Municipal Corporations, leaving two for JSP and one for BJP. Out of 70 posts of chairpersons for which polling was held, TDP fielded 49 candidates, JSP 17 and BJP four. Reacting to the results of municipal elections, TDP Working President Nara Lokesh said that the verdict is a mandate to serve, not to celebrate. We accept it with humility as the people's blessing for the good governance of the last two and a half years. Congratulations to all the victorious TDP, Jana Sena and BJP candidates, and thank you to our three parties' leaders and workers for their collective effort. Now that the municipal elections are over, our only focus is service, for every citizen, beyond party lines. There is no room for arrogance. Keeping the trust people have placed in us is our real responsibility, and we will work harder than ever to deliver on their aspirations, he posted on X. YSRCP president and former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy accused the coalition of resorting to rigging at every stage of the municipal polls. He also accused the police and the State Election Commission of complicity with the coalition.
AU campus comes alive as GVMC results emerge
NDA dominates GVMC polls, wins majority wards
Indias data centre capacity set for 5-fold surge by 2030, see over Rs 3 lakh crore investments
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 3 (IANS) Indias data centre installed capacity is projected to increase five-fold to about 7.5 gigawatts (GW) by March 2030, attracting investments of more than Rs 3 lakh crore over the four fiscals, a Crisil report showed on Tuesday. The surge is being driven by generative artificial intelligence (GenAI)-led computing demand, enterprise digitalisation and rising data consumption. While long-tenor contracts with hyperscalers provide strong cash flow visibility, the pace of this expansion and credit quality of the data centre developers will hinge on timely power connectivity, regulatory approvals and disciplined project execution, said the report. Indias structural cost advantages further strengthen its attractiveness as a data centre destination. Development costs are around one-fifth lower than in several competing Asia-Pacific markets owing to more competitive land, construction and labour costs, said Anand Kulkarni, Director, Crisil Ratings. Combined with lower power tariffs, this translates into rentals that are 30-35 per cent lower than in peer markets. The ability to develop large, renewable-powered campuses also aligns well with the sustainability goals of hyperscalers, reinforcing Indias competitive positioning, he mentioned. Nearly half of the upcoming capacity is already committed under long-term contracts, limiting speculative development and reducing offtake risk. Upfront tie-ups with hyperscalers, driven by cloud adoption and compute-intensive GenAI workloads, provide revenue certainty from the outset. This helps de-risk projects, even as the scale and speed of the planned build-out intensify execution requirements, the report said. About three-fourths of the upcoming capacity of 6 GW is expected to be built in Visakhapatnam, Mumbai and Hyderabad. By fiscal 2030, data centre capacity in these cities could rise sharply and equate to around 80 per cent, 60 per cent and 20 per cent, respectively, of their current peak power demand. This underscores the criticality of timely grid connectivity and transmission augmentation. The quality of contracted revenues has also strengthened. Contract tenors have lengthened to 15-20 years from 10-12 years earlier, enhancing cash flow visibility. Furthermore, high migration costs and rising replacement capex should support customer retention, although a meaningful contract renewal track record is yet to be established, said Nitin Bansal, Associate Director, Crisil Ratings.
22, 24 carat Gold prices up across other cities on November 3
Beyond disaster relief: India-US Tiger Triumph exercise brings cyber, space into focus
India and the United States have commenced the fifth edition of Exercise Tiger Triumph in Visakhapatnam. This exercise aims to improve interoperability for humanitarian assistance and disaster response between the armed forces. The focus has expanded to include space, cyber, and command and control in the training sessions. High-level military engagements continue to strengthen the defense relationship between both nations.
India, US begin military exercise Tiger Triumph in Visakhapatnam
Digital Desk | Visakhapatnam, Nov 3 (IANS) The fifth edition bilateral tri-service Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) amphibious Exercise Tiger Triumph 2026 between India and the United States is underway in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, with forces from both countries training side-by-side to strengthen defence cooperation and enhance their ability to respond to regional crises, the US Navy's Pacific Fleet said on Tuesday. According to the US Navy, the service members from the US and Indian Armed Forces officially commenced Exercise Tiger Triumph 2026 with an opening ceremony in Visakhapatnam on Monday. Tiger Triumph 2026 is a bilateral, combined joint exercise focused on advancing joint and combined interoperability for humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations, tabletop staff planning, and integrated multi-domain command and control. Tiger Triumph represents the growing strength, sophistication, and shared commitment of the US-India Major Defence Partnership. Our bilateral training reinforces our shared commitment to regional stability, refines our combined operational coordination, and prepares our forces to rapidly respond to crises and natural disasters in the region, said US Pacific Fleet Vice Commander US Navy Rear Adm. Joaquin Martinez de Pinillos. Underscoring the significance of the joint exercise, Indian Navy Rear Admiral Vishal Bishnoi, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, said, Our two countries share a strong and enduring partnership, built on mutual trust, professional respect and an expanding range of defence engagements. Exercise Tiger Triumph gives practical expression to this relationship by bringing together complementary capabilities of our armed forces in demanding humanitarian assistance and disaster response settings. Marking the fifth edition of the bilateral exercise series since its inception in 2019, Exercise Tiger Triumph 2026 incorporates staff planning, all-domain tabletop exercises and specialised training in command, control, cyber and space synchronisation. In addition to bilateral operational planning, participating personnel will conduct subject-matter expert exchanges, community outreach, and cultural events to build lasting professional relationships, the US Navy stated. The exercise comes amid continued efforts by India and the US to deepen their defence partnership. Last week, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth in Cebu, Philippines, on the sidelines of the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) and reviewed progress made under the defence framework between the two nations. Taking to X, Singh said, Had an excellent meeting with US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on the sidelines of the 13th ADMM-Plus. We reviewed the progress of our 10-year India-US Defence Framework, driving strategic convergence across military technology, information sharing, and co-production. Our robust partnership continues to be a cornerstone for a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific, he added. Following the discussions, Hegseth also took to X and said that it was great meeting with Defence Minister Singh. We celebrated the one-year anniversary of the Framework for our Major Defense Partnership and explored ways to strengthen cooperation, he said.
India, US hold 5th edition of Tiger Triumph 2026 in Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam, Nov 03: The Opening Ceremony of the 5th edition of the IndiaUS Bilateral Tri-Service Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise, Tiger Triumph 2026, was held at Maritime Warfare Centre (MWC), Visakhapatnam on 02 Nov 2026. The exercise, which is being conducted as a Tabletop Exercise (TTX) this year, aims to enhance coordination, joint planning and interoperability between the Armed Forces of both countries during large-scale HADR operations. The Opening Ceremony was presided over by RAdm Vishal Bishnoi, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, and RAdm Joaquin J Martinez de Pinillos, Vice Commander, US Pacific Fleet. The exercise reflects the deepening convergence of IndiaUS strategic maritime interests and the growing defence partnership between the two nations. The present edition aims to further enhance interoperability and facilitate the conduct of Combined Joint All-Domain Operations, with a focus on planning and coordination for large-scale HADR operations. Participating units from the Indian side include specialists from all domains of maritime operations from the Indian Navy, ground forces from the Indian Army and representatives from various units of the Indian Air Force, as well as Special Forces personnel from all three Services. A team from the NDRF will also participate for the first time in the 5th edition of Tiger Triumph 2026. The US Joint Force comprises specialist representatives from various domains of the US Armed Forces, including the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps and Navy, as well as specialists in Space, Cyber, Medical and Explosive Ordnance Disposal.
Cyclone Murasu crosses Andhra Pradesh coast; triggers heavy rain, strong winds
Digital Desk | Amaravati, Nov 3 (IANS) Heavy rains with gusty winds lashed parts of south coastal Andhra Pradesh as the severe cyclonic storm Murasu in the Bay of Bengal crossed the coast between Nellore and Narasapur early Tuesday, According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) bulletin, the severe cyclonic storm crossed the south Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narasapur close to between 3.30 a.m. and 5.30 a.m. with a wind speed of 100-110 kmph gusting to 120 kmph. It lay centered at 5.30 a.m. over south coastal Andhra Pradesh, close to Ongole, about 40 km southwest of Bapatla, 80 km north-northeast of Kavali, and 120 km from Machilipatnam. It is likely to continue to move North-northwestwards and weaken gradually into a cyclonic storm (wind speed reaching 80-90 kmph gusting to 100 kmph) by noon and further into a deep depression (wind speed reaching 55-65 kmph gusting to 75 kmph) by midnight of this day. It is under the continuous surveillance of Doppler Weather Radars at Machilipatnam and Visakhapatnam, the IMD said. Real-Time Governance Society (RTGS) Centre and the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) are continuously monitoring the situation. Prakhar Jain, MD of SDMA and CEO of the RTGS, has urged people to remain on high alert. In case of any issues, people can report them at any time via 'Mana Mithra' at 9552300009. Murasu triggered heavy rain in the south coastal region since Monday. According to APSDMA, Naguluppalapadu in Prakasam district recorded the highest rainfall of 198.01 mm between 8.30 a.m. on Monday and 6 a.m. on Tuesday. Kothapatnam recorded 182.25 mm of rainfall, while Bapatla received 128.53 mm of rainfall. Chirala recorded 124.10 mm; Throvagunta in Prakasam district recorded 116.93 mm; Ongole Urban recorded 106.97 mm, and Chilakapadu recorded 104.50 mm of rainfall. Heavy rains are likely in several districts on Tuesday. Widespread heavy to very heavy rainfall, with isolated extremely heavy rainfall, is expected over Bapatla, Guntur, Krishna, Palnadu, NTR, Eluru, and West Godavari districts. Widespread moderate rainfall, with isolated heavy rainfall, is expected over East Godavari, Polavaram, Kakinada, Konaseema, Prakasam, and Markapuram districts. Meanwhile, Transport Minister Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy on Tuesday directed RTC and Transport Department officials to give the highest priority to the safety of passengers in cyclone-affected areas. He directed officials to continuously monitor weather conditions and make decisions regarding bus operations accordingly. In areas experiencing heavy rainfall and strong winds, bus services should be temporarily suspended, if necessary. The minister said road conditions should be monitored regularly, and buses must be operated only along safe routes.
HPCL refinery fire in Visakhapatnam: Massive blaze erupts, no casualties reported; probe underway
The fire is believed to have erupted at the sulphur pitch tank of the refinery's Residue Upgradation Facility (RUF) within the HPCL refinery premises. The tank caught fire, resulting in eruption of flames and thick smoke, Malkapuram inspector of police Prakash Rao told reporters.
Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation Election Results LIVE: Counting to begin at 8 am
The counting of votes for the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) elections in Andhra Pradesh will begin at 8 am on Tuesday (November 3), with the results expected to determine the composition of the civic...
Tiger Triumph 2026: US and Indian forces begin joint military exercise in Visakhapatnam
The bilateral exercise brings together the two countries armed forces for joint training in humanitarian assistance, disaster response and operational coordination
HPCL says fire at Visakhapatnam refinery controlled, no damage to units
The fire broke out around 10 pm on November 2, prompting the refinerys Fire and Safety Team to activate emergency response measures
Fire at HPCL Visakhapatnam refinery controlled with no casualties
The News Mill
Fire at HPCL refinery in Visakhapatnam extinguished with no casualties
The News Mill
Fire breaks out at HPCL Visakh Refinery; no casualties reported
AP Gears Up For CII Partnership Summit In Visakhapatnam On Nov. 12, 13
Chief Secretary G. Sai Prasad reviewed the arrangements with senior officials at the state Secretariat on Monday and stressed the need to organise the summit to attract domestic and international investors.
YSRCP questions sudden increase in GVMC polling percentage, threatens legal battle
HPCL Visakh Refinery supports Educational initiative on Indias Freedom movement
Visakhapatnam oil refinery incident: Fire breaks out at HPCL facility in Vizag
A fire occurred at the HPCL facility in Visakhapatnam on Monday night, as reported by the police. There were no casualties resulting from the incident, according to officials. The police commissioner confirmed the fire, although the cause remains undetermined at this time. Visuals of the incident showed a towering column of fire and thick smoke over the city. The situation has garnered widespread attention on social media platforms.
Massive explosion at Visakhapatnam oil refinery, thick smoke billows after fire
Massive explosion at Visakhapatnam oil refinery, thick smoke billows after fire More Details Awaited
A powerful explosion was reported at an oil refinery in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, causing concern among people living nearby. Videos from the location showed towering flames rising from the site, with thick clouds of smoke spreading across the surrounding
Visakhapatnam refinery hit by major fire near oil tank
A fire broke out on Monday evening at Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd's Visakh Refinery, causing significant concern in nearby industrial areas. Flames erupted near a tank containing Ruf Pitch Oil, alarming commuters passing by the location and leading to viral videos on social media. HPCL sources reported no injuries or casualties from the incident, but the cause remains unclear. Rumors of an explosion circulated, though officials considered that scenario unlikely.
IGPL Visakhapatnam leg begins on Tuesday
Explosion Sparks Major Fire at HPCL Visakhapatnam Refinery
Thick smoke was seen billowing over nearby neighbourhoods, while multiple fire tenders were rushed to the site to bring the blaze under control.
Unique Kanak Mahalaxmi Temple in Visakhapatnam: A Roofless Abode of Goddess Lakshmi
Discover the Kanak Mahalaxmi Temple in Visakhapatnam, where devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi under the open sky, especially during Diwali. Unique Kanak Mahalaxmi Temple in Visakhapatnam: A Roofless Abode of Goddess Lakshmi
Andhra releases Rs 37 crore for rescue, relief as Cyclone 'Murasu' closes in
Digital Desk | Amaravati, Nov 2 (IANS) With severe cyclonic storm Murasu approaching the Andhra Pradesh coast, with wind speeds of 100110 km per hour, the state government on Monday released Rs 37 crore for rescue and relief operations. The Revenue (Disaster Management) Department has issued orders, allocating funds to 17 districts to meet immediate expenditure towards rescue and relief operations. The government has sanctioned Rs.3 crore each for six districts, Rs.2 crore each for eight districts, and Rs 1 crore each for three districts. Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) had proposed to the government to accord permission to the Collectors and District Magistrates to utilise funds under Rule TR27 to meet emergent relief requirements such as evacuation, provision of food and temporary shelters, medicines, fuel, transportation, and restoration of essential services. The Revenue Department accepted the proposal and issued orders. Meanwhile, the APSDMA stated on Monday night that the cyclone is currently centred 80 km from Nellore, 80 km from Kavali, 110 km from Ongole and 170 km from Machilipatnam. It is expected to make landfall near Ongole between tonight (midnight) and the early hours of Tuesday. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely in isolated places across the districts of West Godavari, Krishna, Guntur, Bapatla, and Palnadu. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is also expected in isolated areas within the Prakasam, Markapuram, and Nellore districts. ASDMA Managing Director Prakhar Jain has advised people to stay safely indoors. People have been urged to maintain a high state of alert and remain cautious of power lines that may have snapped due to the strong winds. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea. According to the Visakhapatnam Cyclone Warning Centre, a storm surge of about 1.5-2 metres above the astronomical tide is very likely to inundate low-lying areas of South Coastal Andhra Pradesh. Authorities have issued danger signals to ports along the Andhra Pradesh coast. Great Danger 10 (GD-10) has been issued to Nizampatnam Port and Vadarevu Harbour. Danger signal 9 has been hoisted at Machilipatnam, while danger signal 8 has been issued for Krishnapatnam Port. Meanwhile, at least 19 domestic flights were cancelled at Vijayawada, Tirupati, and Visakhapatnam airports on Monday, while several trains were also cancelled. Vijayawada Airport has cancelled 12 flights while Visakhapatnam Airport (Bhogapuram) has cancelled four flights. Tirupati Airport has also cancelled three flights. This is the second cyclone in the Bay of Bengal to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast in a week. Very severe cyclonic storm Arnab crossed the Andhra Pradesh coast near Narsapur in the early hours of October 28, with the maximum sustained wind speed of 125-135 kmph gusting to 150 kmph. It claimed seven lives and caused widespread damage to crops, roads, electricity and telecom infrastructure in the coastal districts. Crops over thousands of acres were damaged in the cyclone while hundreds of electricity poles and trees were uprooted. As per preliminary estimates, the cyclone caused losses of Rs 4,600 crore.
Anticipation builds ahead of GVMC vote count
Anticipation builds ahead of GVMC vote count
GVMC polls record 56.32% turnout; urban voters stay away
Fake software import: ED seizes Rs 47 lakh, foreign currency in Delhi, Kolkata
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 2 (IANS) The ED conducted searches at seven premises located in Delhi and Kolkata and seized Rs 47 lakh and foreign currency in a case related to illegal transfer of funds outside India in the guise of payments for software import, an official said on Monday. The Enforcement Directorate (ED), Visakhapatnam Sub-Zonal Office, carried out the search operations under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, the official said in a statement. The proceeds of crime in this case are prima facie estimated to be about Rs 1,500 crore. The search operation led to seizure of unaccounted/unexplainable cash worth Rs 47 lakh and foreign currency amounting to US $5900, 2200 United Arab Emirates dirham, 5600 renminbi/Chinese yuan along with voluminous incriminating documents/records/property papers and digital devices containing evidence of layering of proceeds of crime and its transfer outside India through shell entities, the ED said. The ED investigation was initiated on the basis of an FIR registered under various sections of the IPC by M.V.P. Police Station, Visakhapatnam, on the complaint of the Income Tax Department, against Vaddi Mahesh and others, said the statement. They were accused of conspiring together, creating false and forged documents and using the same as genuine to make foreign outward remittances through various banks, it said. It was revealed that Vaddi Mahesh, along with his father and others, floated several companies with registered offices in Kolkata and opened bank accounts in their names, through which an amount of Rs 569.03 crore was transferred to five companies in Singapore, Hong Kong and China, ostensibly towards purchase of customised software. However, fabricated invoices of the foreign companies were submitted to the banks, and no software was imported against these remittances, the ED said. The money laundering investigation conducted by the Enforcement Directorate revealed that Bhimendra Kumar Goyal, a habitual offender detained thrice under COFEPOSA, was smuggling cosmetics, electronic goods, textile fabrics, into India by evading customs duty, including by misusing the Customs Transit Declaration Scheme available for Nepal, the agency said. In order to pay the overseas suppliers and to launder the proceeds of crime generated from the sale of the smuggled goods, he approached Vaddi Mahesh through his associates, it said. Investigation showed that during 2014-17, Vaddi Mahesh received funds in the bank accounts of his shell companies from various entities and remitted the same abroad on the instructions of Bhimendra Kumar Goyal, the ED said. These funds were parked in dormant or newly incorporated companies in Singapore and Hong Kong held by nominee directors, and were further transferred to the bank accounts of Bhimendra Kumar Goyal and the companies of his family members, Swiss Fox Pte Ltd and Bhav Technology China Limited, thereby projecting the proceeds of crime as untainted. Investigation further revealed that Bhimendra Kumar Goyal, in collusion with Pawan Kumar Ralli, operated fake firms, Mehak Overseas, Karan Overseas and Geet Enterprises, in fictitious names at fake addresses in New Delhi, and that part of the proceeds of crime was also diverted abroad through Village Handicraft Export and received in Eagle Mount Trading Pte Ltd, Singapore, beneficially owned by Ashish Todi, the ED said.
Man dies after car plunges into a pond at Sheela Nagar
Cyclone Murasu: 19 flights cancelled at three Andhra airports
The flight cancellations affected Vijayawada, Tirupati and Visakhapatnam airports as the cyclone approached the Andhra Pradesh coast, officials said on Monday
CPI(M) seeks action against Pendurthi MLA over alleged irregular voting in GVMC polls
Six fishermen safe as fishing boat runs aground at Rushikonda beach in Visakhapatnam
Jetti Vamsi says he was lured with the promise of a non-combat job in Russia but deployed near the Ukraine frontline; his mother appeals to the State government as police begin an inquiry
VPA Trade Apprentice Recruitment 2026
Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) has announced 20 vacancies across various posts. The recruitment drive includes Electrician, Fitter, Welder, Motor Mechanic, and other positions. The online application process will begin on 04 November 2026, and the last date to apply is 03 December 2026. Candidates can apply through the official website, apprenticeshipindia.gov.in.
Severe Cyclone Murasu: 19 flights cancelled across 3 Andhra airports
Severe cyclonic storm Murasu is expected to impact Andhra Pradesh, resulting in significant flight cancellations. At least 19 domestic flights have been canceled across Vijayawada, Tirupati, and Visakhapatnam airports. Major airlines such as IndiGo and Air India Express have announced several flight cancellations. The storm is anticipated to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast during the night between November 2 and November 3.
SEC has become subservient to Chandrababu Naidu, alleges Jagan
Digital Desk | Amaravati, Nov 2 (IANS) Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and YSR Congress Party President Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on Monday accused the Andhra Pradesh State Election Commission (SEC) of acting in favour of the ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and failing to ensure free and fair municipal elections. In a social media post, he said the SEC, which is meant to protect democracy, has become subservient to Chandrababu Naidu. The shocking incidents during yesterdays municipal polling across the state, including in Pulivendula, show how the SEC is enabling election irregularities, he said. Yesterday in Pulivendula, YSRCP agents were kept out of 70 of the 80 polling booths. TDP goons brought in from other areas went on a rampage with the support of election officials and the police. They attacked our party agents to stop them from entering polling booths. In some places, they dragged our agents out of the polling stations. These incidents took place with the police's support. Voter slips were snatched from people, polling booths were captured, and votes were rigged and cast repeatedly. The video evidence of these incidents is clear. Agents from all 70 booths came to me personally, showed their agent forms to the officials, lodged complaints and protested, he said. Stating that the entire state witnessed what happened, Jagan said the SECs response was shocking. Irregularities took place in 70 of the 80 booths, and our agents were attacked and forced out. In these circumstances, how was it fair for the SEC to order repolling in only four booths and then wash its hands of the matter? asked the former Chief Minister. The SECs decision to order repolling in only four booths in Pulivendula, despite irregularities in many more, was an eyewash meant to mislead the public. Can these elections be called free and fair? If the Election Commission, which is responsible for protecting democracy, turns a blind eye to the ruling partys wrongdoing, how can peoples right to vote be protected? How can the public retain faith in the electoral system? YS Jagan said. He alleged that these incidents were not limited to Pulivendula. Election irregularities took place across the state, including in the municipal corporations of Kadapa, Anantapur, Tirupati, Kurnool, Chittoor, Ongole, Guntur, Nellore, Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada. Similar incidents occurred in several municipalities, including Macherla, Chilakaluripet, Vinukonda, Jammalamadugu, Nandyal, Chimakurthy, Giddalur, Emmiganur, Sullurpeta, Palasa, Dhone, Naidupeta, Nandigama, Jaggayyapeta, Kuppam, Puttur and Parvathipuram. We will fight these election irregularities in court to protect democracy. We will place every piece of evidence before the courts. Justice may take time, but truth and justice will ultimately prevail, he added.
22, 24 carat Gold prices see mixed trend across other cities on November 2
Cyclone Murasu: 12 flight services cancelled at Vijayawada; Visakhapatnam flights hit
The severe cyclonic storm Murasu is expected to cross the south Andhra coast near Ongole tonight
Cyclone Murasu: IndiGo Issues Travel Advisory as Bad Weather Disrupts Vizag Flights
Due to adverse weather conditions in Visakhapatnam, flight operations are impacted, IndiGo said.
Cyclone Arnab aftermath disrupts IndiGo flights in Visakhapatnam, airline issues advisory
IndiGo has issued a travel advisory due to disrupted flight operations in Visakhapatnam caused by Cyclone Arnab. The airline warned passengers about potential extended waiting times both on the ground and onboard. Passengers are encouraged to visit the official website for the latest flight updates regarding their travel plans. Heavy rainfall is expected in Andhra Pradesh and neighboring states as the cyclone approaches the coast.
The cyclonic storm lay centred about 350 km east of Chennai, 400 km east-southeast of Nellore, 430 km southeast of Machilipatnam, 420 km east-southeast of Kavali, 450 km southeast of Ongole, and 520 km south of Visakhapatnam, according to IMD.
GVMC polls record 51% turnout with Bheemunipatnam leading at 65%
Polling Mostly Peaceful In North Andhra
Nellimarla recorded the highest turnout at 80.31%, while a few heated exchanges between TD and YSRC workers were reported in Visakhapatnam.
Dark chapter in history of democracy: Jagan on polling for Andhra municipal elections
Digital Desk | Amaravati, Nov 1 (IANS) YSR Congress Party president and former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has termed Sundays polling for urban local bodies in Andhra Pradesh a dark chapter in the history of democracy. Broad daylight rigging, polling agents being obstructed and pulled out, and voters openly threatened and prevented from exercising their right to vote, all in the presence of police, he said in a post on X. Hey Ram! Save Democracy!, wrote Jagan, who posted a video clip of rigging and violence allegedly by the TDP cadres during the polling. In Pulivendula(ULB), in 70 out of 80 polling booths, YSRCP polling agents were not allowed to enter the polling stations; who is to identify the voter?, he asked. Apart from my home constituency Pulivendula, similar incidents were also witnessed with respect to the following ULBs - Kadapa, Anantapur, Tirupati, Kurnool, Chittoor, Ongole, Guntur, Nellore, Visakhapatnam (GVMC), Vijayawada, Macherla, Chilakaluripet, Vinukonda, Jammalamadugu, Nandyal, Cheemakurthi, Yemmiganur, Sullurpeta, Palasa, Nayudupeta, Nandigama, Jaggayyapeta, Kuppam, Puttur, Bheemunipatnam, Parvathipuram and others, alleged the YSRCP chief. He stated that under Chandrababu Naidus watch, Andhra Pradeshs electoral system is collapsing alarmingly, with democratic institutions totally hijacked. This is no longer an election; its only your selection. It is an assault on democracy and a brazen attempt to subvert the peoples mandate!. I specially mention and salute the brave women and dedicated party cadre who stood their ground and fought till the very last minute to save democracy, he added. Meanwhile, YSRCP State Coordinator Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy said the municipal polling process had been reduced to a farce, with Chandrababu Naidu resorting to large-scale electoral manipulation to manufacture an artificial victory. Speaking at the YSRCP central office, he said the party would demand repolling, take the irregularities to the national level and once again approach the courts. Sajjala said the irregularities that began at the nomination stage reached their peak on polling day. YSRCP candidates were prevented from filing nominations, nomination papers were torn, names disappeared from final lists, nominations were rejected during scrutiny, candidates were forced to withdraw, and leaders were subjected to cases, bind-overs and house arrests. He said YSRCP had approached the Supreme Court with evidence concerning nearly 1,500 to 2,000 people, but even directions relating to CCTV surveillance and extension of nominations were not implemented effectively by the State Election Commission. Despite these obstacles, YSRCP did not boycott the elections. Following YS Jagan Mohan Reddys direction, the party stayed in the contest and fought until the end. In Kadapa, only two of 66 nominations were retained, while similar obstruction occurred in Chittoor and Pulivendula. On polling day, voters were intimidated, polling agents were denied entry and booths were captured, he said. Sajjala listed Macherla, Chilakaluripet, Jammalamadugu, Madanapalle, Dhone, Tadipatri, Chimakurthy, Kuppam, Pulivendula, Kadapa and Chittoor among places where repolling was required. He also cited irregularities in Anantapur, Nellore, Kurnool, Ongole, Vinukonda, Markapuram, Yemmiganur and Nagari. He said police, Presiding Officers and Returning Officers facilitated the ruling partys actions while the SEC failed to intervene. In several places, YSRCP agents were removed after noon and bogus votes were cast with police support. Nearly 360 booths saw YSRCP agents driven out, he said.
1,781 persons bound over in ASR district ahead of MPTC, ZPTC polls
Electricity Workers Brave Cyclone Arnab To Restore Essential Services
Amid heavy rain and winds of up to 150 kmph brought by Cyclone Arnab, APEPDCL electricity workers continued working through the night near HB Colony in Visakhapatnam, braving harsh conditions to keep essential services running.
Gummadi Sandhya Rani Casts Vote as Polling Begins Peacefully in Parvathipuram Manyam
Polling in Visakhapatnam is also progressing peacefully, with police maintaining security arrangements at polling stations.
According to booth-level officials, voter turnout was thin between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m., with only a handful of people visiting several polling stations during the first hour
According to booth-level officials, voter turnout was thin between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m., with only a handful of people visiting several polling stations during the first hour
Water ingress reported on INS Kesari at Visakhapatnam Dockyard
The News Mill
APSRTC Deploys 254 Buses For GVMC Polls
Appalanaidu said an additional 60 buses had been arranged to transport polling personnel from Alluri Sitarama Raju, Anakapalli and Vizianagaram districts to Visakhapatnam.
Water ingress reported on INS Kesari at Visakhapatnam naval dockyard
An incident of water ingress occurred on board INS Kesari on Saturday afternoon while the ship was berthed at the naval dockyard at Visakhapatnam, an Indian Navy official said. However, no injuries or loss of life were reported, a spokesperson of the Indian Navy said. An incident of water ingress occurred on board INS Kesari this afternoon while the ship was berthed at the naval dockyard, Visakhapatnam, the official said. Operations to pump out the water are currently in progress, the spokesperson said.
Candidates strategise, officials gear up for GVMC polls
Bengali food festival in Visakhapatnam: A feast of sorse ilish, kosha maangsho and more
A lavish buffet at The Park Visakhapatnam celebrates Bengals culinary favourites, from mustard-rich fish curries to traditional sweets and street food.
Todays Gold Rate: Gold prices down in Coimbatore, Nagpur, Visakhapatnam, Surat, Jaipur
22, 24 carat Gold prices down across other cities on October 31
Repeated bans across four major weather alerts since June have caused cumulative losses exceeding 36 crore
Collector issues directions, appeals to voters and employers ahead of GVMC poll
Collector issues directions, appeals to voters and employers ahead of GVMC poll
YSRCP Mayor candidate vows to better water supply, civic services
N. Sridhar is new Chief Commissioner GST, Visakhapatnam
Fire breaks out at Visakhapatnam port premises
Fake currency racket busted in Visakhapatnam, four held
Free child-care training programme for women in Visakhapatnam
VPA Dy. Chief Vigilance Officer Recruitment 2026
Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) has invited offline applications for the post of Dy. Chief Vigilance Officer (Cl.I). Applications can be submitted from 30 October 2026 to 23 November 2026. For complete details, candidates can visit vpt.shipping.gov.in.
Telangana extends helping hand to A.P. in cyclone-hit power restoration
TG-NPDCL and TG-SPDCL deploy 2,077 personnel to assist APEPDCL; power restored in 5,277 of the 5,727 villages affected by Cyclone Arnab
Train services disrupted on IchchapuramJhadupudi section
A.P. releases 9.86 crore to upgrade 16 de-addiction centres
Three government hospitals in Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam and Kadapa to be developed as specialised Centres of Excellence offering advanced addiction treatment and rehabilitation services
A.P. releases 9.86 crore to upgrade 16 de-addiction centres
Three government hospitals in Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam and Kadapa to be developed as specialised Centres of Excellence offering advanced addiction treatment and rehabilitation services
A.P. Cabinet clears 5,194-cr. expansion by Vizag Profiles, SEIL
Andhra steps up efforts to restore normalcy in cyclone-affected districts
Digital Desk | Amaravati, Oct 30 (IANS) Authorities in Andhra Pradesh have stepped up efforts to restore normalcy in areas affected by Cyclone Arnab. Various departments were active on the ground, focusing on the restoration of power, transport, and communication systems, officials said on Friday. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu conducted a review of the relief and restoration works before heading for a field visit to the affected areas in West Godavari district. Officials reported progress in the restoration of power, roads, and communication systems. He was informed that power restoration work accelerated with support from other states. Reviewing relief operations being carried out by various departments at the village level, the Chief Minister instructed officials to maintain their commitment until aid reaches everyone and all issues are fully resolved. With the Chief Minister personally interacting with field-level staff, the administration has been completing tasks on a war footing. Within the jurisdiction of Andhra Pradesh Eastern Power Distribution Company Limited (APEPDCL), power supply has been restored to 4,881 out of the 5,404 villages that experienced outages. Out of the 552 substations affected within the APEPDCL jurisdiction, 513 have been restored. With about 93 per cent of the restoration work completed, 39 substations remain to be restored. According to officials, power supply has been fully restored to all affected villages in the Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli, Kakinada, and Eluru districts. In the severely affected Konaseema region, power has been restored in 87 out of 316 villages, while in West Godavari, it has been restored in 154 out of 318 villages. Across these two districts, power supply is yet to be restored in 393 villages. In Krishna district, within the APEPDCL jurisdiction, power has been restored to 867 out of 915 affected villages. Progress has also been made in the restoration of mobile communication services. Out of 1,045 affected mobile towers belonging to various service providers, 661 have been restored. The restoration of the remaining 384 towers is still pending. A total of 2,270 trees that had fallen on Roads and Buildings (R&B) department roads have been cleared. In Konaseema district alone, 1,334 trees were removed, clearing the obstructions on the roads. Traffic was disrupted at 137 locations on R&B roads. Connectivity has now been restored at 119 locations. Officials said a total of 2,425.45 kilometres of R&B roads were damaged due to the cyclone. Temporary restoration work has been completed at 100 sites under the Water Resources Department, including 78 affected tanks and 22 canals. Agricultural crops spanning 352,254 hectares across 16 districts have been inundated. Horticultural crops across 23,211 hectares have been affected. According to an official note, it is estimated that the state received approximately 380 TMC of water due to rains between October 26 and 29. Flood inflows are still continuing. Through efficient water management, an additional 4.68 TMC of water has been stored in reservoirs, with the potential for another 56 TMC to be added.
Cyclone Arnab: Bhubaneswar-Visakhapatnam Vande Bharat among 35 trains cancelled
Water over railway bridges between Ichchapuram and Jhadupudi halts services on the Chennai-Howrah main line
Cyclone Arnab: GVMC clears 902 uprooted trees, restores roads, water supply
NDA Mayor candidate unveils nine-point vision for Visakhapatnam
T-shirt, medals for 5th edition of Vizag Marathon unveiled
NDA leaders hit back at YSRCPs Save Vizag slogan
Left parties, AAP release joint manifesto for GVMC polls
Coast Guard rescues 20 crew members from stranded ship off Andhra coast (2nd Lead)
Digital Desk | Visakhapatnam, Oct 29 (IANS) In a high-risk operation, the Indian Coast Guard rescued 20 crew members from a Singapore-bound cargo ship stranded off the Andhra Pradesh coast on Thursday. Indian Coast Guard (ICG) said that in a swift response off Antarvedi, post the very severe cyclone Aranab, it executed a high-risk operation, safely rescuing all 20 crew members from the aground vessel MV Sigma Pearl in rough seas. ICG's pre-emptive measures, coastal monitoring, and Disaster Response Team (DRT) deployment along the Andhra coast ensured zero loss of life at sea. ICG deployed its ship Sujay and helicopter ICG Helo to evacuate those trapped on the merchant ship. The stranded crew members were airlifted in a heroic rescue operation. The bulk carrier, Sigma Pearl, sailing under the Marshall Islands flag, was stranded near Antarvedi while navigating through the Ravva oilfield due to engine failure. The cargo ship was suspected to have suffered engine failure under the impact of severe cyclonic storm Arnab in the Bay of Bengal. The Coast Guard deployed a helicopter (ICG Helo) and Offshore Patrol Vessel Sujay as part of its operation to rescue members of the crew. The Coast Guard personnel used the helipad at Mogalthur village in West Godavari district for the rescue efforts. The ship suffered an engine failure while returning to Singapore after unloading the cargo at Visakhapatnam port. The vessel departed from Visakhapatnam port around 12.17 a.m. on October 27, around the time Cyclone Arnab was approaching Yanam before making landfall in the early hours of October 28. With the vessel stranded in rough seas, the crew members were worried and were desperately waiting for some help. On receiving the communication, the ICG launched an operation and completed it within 24 hours, safely rescuing all the crew members. Very severe cyclonic storm Arnab crossed the Andhra Pradesh coast in the early hours of October 28 with maximum sustained wind speed of 125-135 kmph, gusting up to 150 kmph. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the process continued for six hours till 8 a.m. The cyclone claimed seven lives, leaving a trail of destruction in coastal districts, uprooting thousands of trees, electricity poles and causing extensive damage to crops.
Cyclone Arnab: Price Surge In Vegetables, Fruits, Flowers
Cyclone Arnab has disrupted supplies in Visakhapatnam, pushing up prices of vegetables, fruits, flowers and eggs amid heavy rains and transport bottlenecks.
Swollen streams, landslides cut off Agency villages in ASR district
Swollen streams, landslides cut off Agency villages in ASR district
ICG rescues 20 seamen from stranded ship off Andhra coast
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 29 (IANS) In a swift Maritime Search and Rescue (M-SAR) operation off the Andhra Pradesh Coast, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued 20 crew members from the bulk carrier MV Sigma Pearl. The 179.90 metre long ship ran aground off Antravedi in the aftermath of Cyclone Arnab and sent out an SOS. On receiving an alert, ICG Ship Sujay and a helicopter executed a high-risk operation, managing to rescue all 20 crew members from the ship. The rescue operation took place in extremely bad weather. According to officials, the ship ran aground due to high seas and strong winds that lashed the Andhra coast as the Very Severe Cyclone made landfall early on Wednesday. The master of the vessel requested support after efforts to release the vessel failed. Preemptive measures, coastal monitoring, and Disaster Relief Team (DRT) deployment along the Andhra Pradesh coast ensured zero loss of life at sea, the ICG said. The MV Sigma Pearl was sailing under the Marshall Islands flag. It is a bulk carrier with a deadweight of 32,688 tonnes. It had sailed from Visakhapatnam on October 27, 2026, and marine tracking sites show its destination as For Orders. This means that the ship had no specific destination after departing Visakhapatnam. It was on the lookout for cargo and moving towards an area where there is a demand for bulk carriers. The condition of the ship is being ascertained. While it may not be carrying any cargo, it would have furnace oil in its tank and may also be carrying marine diesel. Authorities are in touch with the ship's management and owners to arrange for its salvage, an official said. The ICG has taken several measures even as Cyclone Arnab approached the coastline. Fishermen were directed to stay away from the sea, and there was constant monitoring to check for stragglers or stranded vessels. On October 29, 2026, a Coast Guard helicopter also carried out rescue operations in flooded areas of Odisha. A few weeks ago, the ICG helped a ship that was capsizing off the Paradip port. The ship was boarded, water was pumped out from its holds, and necessary repairs were carried out before it was taken under tow to Paradip. While saving lives at sea is crucial, the ICG also maintains close watch on oil spills and other pollution. It is the nodal agency to combat marine pollution in India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
