Cold wave grips ASR, Visakhapatnam as temperatures dip to single digits

For farmers in ASR district, the cold wave presents a mixed picture. While crops such as coffee and pepper, which thrive in cooler climates, are benefiting from the drop in temperature, the chill poses challenges for others.

A View of the early morning fog in Visakhapatnam city on Monday Photo | G Satyanarayana

VISAKHAPATNAM: As winter tightens its grip over the State, the Alluri Sitarama Raju (ASR) and Visakhapatnam districts are witnessing a cold wave, transforming the landscape and daily life across the region.

According to officials of the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Chintapalle, temperatures in the Eastern Ghats have dipped to single digits.

Araku Valley in ASR district recorded a chilling 4.4°C on December 14, following even colder days when the mercury hovered close to 3°C. On Monday, temperatures stood at 8.9°C in Araku Valley, 9.2°C in G Madugula, 7.3°C in Munchingiputtu, 9.9°C in Hukumpeta and 9.6°C in Pedabayalu.

For farmers in ASR district, the cold wave presents a mixed picture. While crops such as coffee and pepper, which thrive in cooler climates, are benefiting from the drop in temperature, the chill poses challenges for others. Coffee plantations in the Araku Valley are expected to yield beans with richer flavour profiles due to the extended cold spell.

Paddy fields in low-lying areas of Vizag are at risk, as sudden temperature drops can stunt crop growth and reduce yields.

Lambasingi, the Kashmir of AP, to draw tourists

Farmers in the tribal belts of ASR are also worried about frost damage to vegetable crops, which are crucial for both sustenance and income.

Even Visakhapatnam city felt the sting of winter in several localities. The early morning hours have become hazardous for motorists navigating the winding ghat roads of ASR district and the outskirts of Visakhapatnam. Dense fog has reduced visibility, especially along the Araku–Lambasingi stretch, increasing the risk of accidents. Steep inclines and sharp curves, already challenging under normal conditions, turn more dangerous when coated with dew.

Local authorities have issued advisories urging caution, particularly to tourists unfamiliar with the terrain. The ASR district police have adjusted transport timings to avoid early morning and late-night travel. Police patrols have also been intensified to manage traffic and assist stranded vehicles.

Meanwhile, Lambasingi, often dubbed the ‘Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh’, has emerged as a major draw for tourists keen to experience sub-10°C temperatures without leaving the State. Hotels in Araku Valley and Lambasingi are fully booked till the end of December.

Tourism officials said all rooms managed by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) are occupied, while private accommodations are also running at full capacity.