Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan Criticizes Previous Government Amid Flood Relief Efforts

Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan criticizes the previous YRSCP government for neglecting crucial irrigation projects amid state-wide floods. He pledges substantial aid and calls for unity. The Indian Air Force has intensified relief operations in Andhra Pradesh, deploying helicopters and dropping 50,000 kg of relief material in affected areas.

Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has alleged that the previous YRSCP government neglected the Budameru canal stream and failed to focus on small irrigation projects amid the state's ongoing destruction due to continuous rainfall. Speaking to ANI on Tuesday, Kalyan said, "The previous government was unable to take any effective measures. They neglected the Budameru canal stream. We have assessed the situation at the Annamayya project. The small irrigation projects were also ignored."

He further mentioned that the state has been severely affected by continuous rainfall over the past four days, and floodwaters from Telangana have exacerbated the situation. "The state has been affected because of excessive rainfall. Special attention needs to be given to Vijayawada. We have deployed 262 Panchayati Raj teams for relief and rehabilitation," he added.

Kalyan expressed his deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the floods and appealed to political parties to unite for relief efforts. "As my contribution, I am donating one crore rupees to the Chief Minister's Relief Fund. Every citizen should assist in such times. The government is spending Rs 80 crore on the affected district. We must create a master plan for every city to prevent future disasters," he emphasized.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has intensified relief operations in flood-affected areas of Andhra Pradesh's Vijayawada district. According to the IAF, six Mi-17 and two Chetak helicopters have been deployed to drop relief material. So far, 50,000 kg of relief material has been distributed in the NTR District.

(With inputs from agencies.)