Andhra Pradesh Government Pledges Support to Farmers Affected by Cyclone Arnab

Amaravati, October 30 (Daily Kiran) : Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu of Andhra Pradesh has assured that the government will provide all possible support to farmers affected by Cyclone Arnab. During a visit to flood-hit areas in West Godavari district, he inspected inundated fields and spoke with impacted farmers. Naidu inquired about the status of crop insurance for the farmers.

The state government has initiated steps to include every acre of land under crop insurance through the e-crop system. He emphasized that input subsidies from the government would help mitigate the losses incurred by farmers. Naidu expressed the coalition government’s commitment to ensuring that farmers do not suffer losses, even in challenging circumstances. He urged farmers to collaborate, stating that permanent solutions to their problems could be achieved.

Naidu also reviewed the ongoing efforts to restore electricity in the affected areas. He praised the workers and officials from the electricity department who are working to restore power supply. He assessed the damage to coconut plantations along the route from Narsapuram to Matarevu.

Later, Naidu visited Matarevu village, one of the hardest-hit areas, where he met with residents taking shelter in relief centers. Women shared their experiences of the distress and fear they faced during the cyclone. Fishermen from the Vashishta Godavari region also raised their concerns with the Chief Minister, who assured them that their complaints would be addressed. He instructed officials to clear canals near the coast to facilitate smoother fishing operations.

In a media briefing, Naidu reported that while the government had taken extensive measures to prevent loss of life, unfortunately, seven fatalities were recorded. He noted that over 15,000 electricity poles had been downed in the affected regions, with the aim to restore power completely by Saturday evening, prioritizing homes before agricultural areas.

Efforts are also underway to restore communication services promptly. In West Godavari district alone, 12,500 trees have been uprooted, and debris removal will commence soon. The cyclone has caused significant damage to coconut plantations and rice crops.

Naidu revealed that the state government has submitted an initial assessment of the cyclone’s damages to the central government, estimating losses at approximately ₹4,600 crores. He announced that families of those who lost their lives in the cyclone would receive ₹5 lakh in assistance.

Relief and rehabilitation efforts have already begun, with essential supplies, including rice, being distributed to affected families. Naidu stated that a comprehensive survey of the cyclone’s damage would be completed soon, and a report will be sent to the central government. The government aims to ensure that every individual impacted by the cyclone receives justice and support.