Cyclone Montha: Hyderabad–Srisailam highway caves in amid heavy rain | WATCH
Hyderabad: The impact of Cyclone Montha intensified across Telangana on Thursday, causing widespread flooding and infrastructure damage. A major section of the Hyderabad–Srisailam National Highway (NH 765) collapsed near Lattipur village in Uppunntala mandal of Nagarkurnool district, following continuous heavy rain.
According to officials, the collapse was triggered by floodwaters overflowing from the Dindi Project, which washed away part of the busy route. Vehicular movement between Hyderabad and Srisailam has been completely suspended, leaving several travellers stranded.
Videos shared on social media show the road split in two, with commuters attempting to navigate the damaged stretch. In one clip, a man is seen leaping across the collapsed section amid gushing water.
The Hyderabad–Srisailam route, a vital link between the two states, remains cut off as authorities assess the extent of damage and begin emergency repair work. Officials have advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel and remain indoors.
Chief Ministers of both Telugu states, N. Chandrababu Naidu of Andhra Pradesh and A. Revanth Reddy of Telangana, have urged citizens to exercise caution and avoid venturing out unless essential.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Telangana, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours, particularly in Warangal, Hanamkonda, and Nagarkurnool districts.
Cyclone Montha, which has been moving inland after lashing Andhra Pradesh’s coastal areas, is now severely affecting Telangana. The Hyderabad–Srisailam highway collapse occurred on Thursday morning, causing a complete traffic standstill between Lattipur and Uppunntala.
The Telangana government has ordered district administrations to remain on high alert, while schools and colleges in multiple districts have been shut as a precaution. Meteorologists warn that more rain is expected as the cyclone system continues to move northward.