Cyclone alert triggers panic buying of essentials in Visakhapatnam markets

Panic buying of essential commodities was reported across Visakhapatnam on Monday as Cyclone Arnab barrels towards the Andhra Pradesh coast.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Arnab is expected to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm and cross the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, close to Yanam-Kakinada, by October 28. The forecast of heavy rainfall and gusty winds reaching up to 140 kmph triggered early-morning rush and panic buying across the coastal city.

Shoppers flocked to markets in large numbers, leaving Rythu Bazaars and open retail counters completely depleted as people rushed to hoard essential commodities ahead of the impending storm.

The city’s 11 main Rythu Bazaars, usually bustling with fresh produce, presented a desolate look by evening. Shelves and display tables were stripped bare of staple vegetables, including onions, potatoes, and tomatoes. Retail merchants and farm-fresh outlets reported exhaustive sales within hours of opening, as consumers bought items in bulk to build up stocks for the coming days till the storm is over.

Open markets across key localities were either completely emptied or forced to shut down early after running out of supply. Transport disruptions and precautionary advisories issued to freight operators further choked fresh inflows into the city’s wholesale distribution networks.

Local authorities including an estate officer of a Rythu Bazar, G. Prasad, urged citizens to refrain from panic buying and hoarding, and assured that adequate stock of essential goods is being monitored. However, anxious residents continued to queue up outside grocery stores and supermarkets until late evening to stock up on dry rations, milk, and emergency supplies.