AP Deputy CM Deploys Drones, Donates for Flood Relief

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has announced the use of drones to deliver essentials to flood-affected areas and donated Rs 1 crore to the Chief Minister Relief Fund. He criticized the lack of action on encroachments and announced additional donations for panchayats and Telangana CM's flood relief efforts.

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan announced on Wednesday the deployment of drones to supply food and water to flood-affected areas in the state. Speaking to reporters, Kalyan shared that he has donated Rs 1 crore to the Chief Minister Relief Fund (CMRF).

'The central government will take necessary actions if the situation demands it. Drones are being used to provide food and water in flood-hit areas. Chandrababu Naidu's visionary leadership is invaluable in these tough times. Yesterday, I announced a Rs 1 crore donation to the CM Relief Fund, which I will personally hand over. The Budameru canal has been encroached upon by the public, leading to severe flooding in Vijayawada due to an improper drainage system,' Kalyan stated. He further revealed that 19 people have lost their lives, 200 animals have perished, and 65,000 boats have been damaged.

'A total of 129 hectares of land have been waterlogged, 232 kilometers of roads damaged, and 11 connecting roads repaired. Over 600,000 individuals have been evacuated and relocated to rehabilitation centers,' Kalyan added. He criticized the YSRCP government, urging them to assist rather than criticize the flood relief efforts. 'At 74, the Chief Minister is touring flood-affected areas via a JCB. Instead of appreciating his efforts, YSRCP and others are resorting to criticism, which is disgraceful,' he said. Kalyan also mentioned that forest officials are vigilant on encroachment violations, but urban areas see no action against illegal encroachments, causing significant problems.

'I conducted a review meeting today. Forest officials are proactive about violations in forest areas, but there is no similar action in urban regions, exacerbating flood issues. Encroachments block natural water courses, and technology will be used to curb urban encroachments. The YSRCP has neglected maintenance of dams and projects. Currently, the CM, NDRF, SDRF, and police continue rescue operations in flood-hit areas,' he said. Kalyan also announced a donation of one lakh rupees to each of 400 panchayats from his personal savings.

'Floods have damaged 386 panchayats. I am donating Rs 1 lakh each to 400 panchayats from my personal savings. Additionally, I am donating Rs 1 crore to Telangana CM Revanth Reddy for flood relief, which I will hand over personally,' he announced. According to the government, 2.3 lakh food packets, 2.5 lakh milk packets, 5 lakh water bottles, and 117 tankers have been distributed to the affected people.

Heavy rainfall has caused widespread destruction in the entire state, particularly in the Krishna and Guntur districts, as well as neighboring Telangana. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)