Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister to Assess Cyclone Damage, Announce Relief Package
CM N. Chandrababu Naidu will visit cyclone-hit areas in Andhra Pradesh to evaluate damage and announce relief efforts.
Amaravati, October 28 (Daily Kiran) : Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is set to visit areas impacted by Cyclone ‘Arnab’ on Thursday. His itinerary includes a tour of the Konaseema and West Godavari districts, where he will assess the extent of the damage.
Speaking to the media at the Real Time Governance Society (RTGS) center on Wednesday evening, Naidu provided updates on the destruction caused by the cyclone and the government’s ongoing relief efforts. He revealed that he has written to the central government requesting assistance for the affected regions. Home Minister Amit Shah has also been informed about the cyclone’s severity and its impact on the state. An initial damage assessment will be submitted to the central government soon, followed by a comprehensive report. Preliminary reports indicate significant losses to coconut plantations and other horticultural crops.
Naidu expressed deep condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the cyclone. He reported that two individuals died due to fallen power poles and trees in Visakhapatnam, while one person each was killed in Anakapalli and Bhimavaram.
In announcing relief measures, the Chief Minister stated that families whose homes were flooded would receive 25 kilograms of rice. Weavers and fishermen will be provided with 50 kilograms of rice, along with one kilogram each of onions, cooking oil, and pigeon peas. Each affected person will receive ₹1,000 in financial aid, and families of the deceased will be compensated ₹5 lakh each. A survey of crop damages will be conducted to provide additional support to farmers.
Economic aid distribution is set to begin on Thursday in the affected districts. Compensation for crop losses will be awarded after the assessment is complete. A final decision on the relief package will be made during a virtual cabinet meeting scheduled for Thursday. Special attention is being given to drinking water and sanitation in the impacted areas.
Naidu highlighted how technology has transformed disaster management, allowing for precise tracking of cyclone paths. He praised the government’s approach, emphasizing “forecasting, accuracy, and ground preparation.” He noted that reduced blockages in canals have alleviated flooding in several locations.
The Chief Minister also thanked officials and staff who have been working tirelessly over the past three days. He reiterated the government’s commitment to delivering timely services and restoring public trust. Following the rainfall from Cyclone ‘Arnab,’ the state’s average rainfall deficit has decreased from 39% to 27%. He further criticized the previous government for neglecting the RTGS center for political reasons.
