Rahul Gandhi Urges Swift Relief for Families Affected by Cyclone Arnab
Rahul Gandhi expresses concern over Cyclone Arnabs impact in Andhra Pradesh, calling for immediate relief and rehabilitation efforts.
New Delhi, October 29 (Daily Kiran) : Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi has voiced serious concern over the devastation caused by Cyclone Arnab in Andhra Pradesh, as well as the heavy rains and flooding affecting Odisha. He expressed his condolences to the families impacted by these disasters and urged governments to expedite relief and rehabilitation efforts.
In a message posted on social media platform X, Gandhi described the situation in Andhra Pradesh as alarming. He extended his sympathies to the families of those who lost their lives in the calamity.
“My thoughts are with all those who have lost loved ones, homes, livelihoods, and their sense of security,” he stated. Gandhi called on the respective state governments to ensure prompt relief and rehabilitation assistance reaches every affected family during this challenging time.
Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu reported that the cyclone has resulted in seven fatalities and an estimated loss of around ₹4,600 crore. He indicated that this figure could rise after a comprehensive assessment of the damage.
After conducting an aerial survey of the affected areas, Naidu confirmed that the state government has submitted an initial report on the damages to the central government. A central team is expected to visit the state to evaluate the situation further.
Naidu noted that the districts of Konaseema and West Godavari were the hardest hit. The government has decided to provide families in relief camps with 25 kilograms of rice, essential goods, and financial assistance for immediate expenses upon their return home.
Additionally, a compensation of ₹1,500 will be given for each damaged coconut and oil palm tree. Farmers will also receive compensation under the crop insurance scheme.
The Chief Minister revealed that approximately 8,000 electricity poles have fallen in Konaseema district alone due to the cyclone. Efforts are being made at a rapid pace to restore electricity and telecommunications services.
He acknowledged that preventive measures helped avert a larger loss of life, but the seven fatalities remain deeply tragic.
Around 30,000 officials and employees have been deployed for relief operations following the cyclone, with an additional 1,000 electricity workers requested from Telangana to assist in recovery efforts.
