AP SDRF personnel save 53 lives during Cyclone Arnab-2026; DGP honours rescue teams

The SDRF deployed 11 specialised teams comprising 328 personnel to carry out rescue, evacuation and emergency response operations during the cyclone. Their coordinated efforts helped evacuate 341 people to safer locations and rescue eight persons who were trapped in dangerous situations.

The teams also cleared 728 fallen trees and removed 31 damaged electric poles, helping restore access and address safety hazards in affected areas. In addition, 53 lives were saved through emergency response coordination facilitated by the Dial-112 system.

Appreciating the personnel for their exemplary service, the DGP presented rewards to officers and staff who had rendered outstanding services during the cyclone. He commended their willingness to work in challenging conditions and their commitment to protecting lives and ensuring public safety.

Addressing the gathering, Harish Kumar Gupta stressed the importance of continuous training, adoption of modern technology and effective coordination among response agencies to further strengthen the state's disaster management capabilities. He emphasised that preparedness and timely intervention were essential to improving the effectiveness of rescue operations during natural calamities.

The programme was attended by IGP (Operations) C.H. Srikanth, IPS, and senior officers of the Andhra Pradesh Special Police (APSP) Battalions.

The recognition highlighted the role of specialised disaster response teams and emergency coordination systems in managing crisis situations and protecting communities during extreme weather events.