Cyclone Montha disrupts pilgrim life in Tirumala

Tirumala witnessed incessant rains and strong winds due to Cyclone Montha since Monday evening, throwing normal life and pilgrim activities out of gear. Devotees had to suffer a lot to reach the Vaikuntam Complex amid heavy showers. They also found it difficult to return to their cottages owing to the non-availability of private cabs and taxis.    

The second ghat road leading to the shrine witnessed sporadic minor landslips at a couple of places. In Balaji Nagar residential locality, massive trees were uprooted under the impact of strong winds. While a car parked outside a residence was crushed under a fallen tree, another tree collapsed across a house, though no casualties were reported.

Meanwhile, all five major water reservoirs atop the town reached full capacity. Officials of the TTD Engineering department said that the sluice gates at a couple of dams shall be lifted to release surplus inflows, should the rains continue further.  

Despite the moderate influx of pilgrims, temple authorities and the staff remained on alert, coordinating with other departments to ensure safety and maintain essential services. They also advised pilgrims to exercise caution while in the town.