CM Chandrababu Reviews Flood Situation In Andhra Pradesh

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday reviewed the rain and flood situation in Andhra Pradesh, with a focus on the impact in north coastal districts, damage to crops and the relief measures being taken by the government.

During a virtual review with Chief Secretary G. Sai Prasad and other senior officials, the Chief Minister took stock of the situation in flood-affected areas and enquired about the extent of waterlogging in residential areas and agricultural fields.

Officials informed him that the state's overall rainfall deficit had improved from 50 per cent to 31 per cent following the recent heavy rains. The deficit in Coastal Andhra had come down to 19.8 per cent, while Rayalaseema's deficit stood at 42 per cent. The latest rains have provided some relief after the state experienced significant rainfall deficiency earlier in the season.

The Chief Minister also reviewed the difficulties faced by fishing communities due to the adverse weather. Fishermen in several areas had been unable to venture into the sea for five consecutive days, affecting their livelihoods. He directed officials to distribute 50 kg of rice to every affected fishing family.

Naidu also directed officials to speed up the process of providing power to the Hiramandalam Lift Irrigation Scheme. He asked the Irrigation and Energy departments to coordinate closely and complete the process at the earliest. Once operational, the scheme is expected to facilitate diversion of water from the Vamsadhara river into the Hiramandalam reservoir.

The Chief Minister also reviewed the prospects of filling reservoirs in various districts with the available water.

Officials informed him that water levels at the Prakasam Barrage in Vijayawada had risen due to local rainfall, despite there being no significant flood inflow from upstream areas. Naidu said additional barrages were needed to effectively store locally generated floodwater. He directed officials to pursue proposals for two new barrages, one upstream and another downstream of Prakasam Barrage, and send the proposals to the Centre for further consideration.