Union Agriculture Minister Assesses Flood Damage in Andhra, Telangana

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan conducted an aerial survey of flood-affected areas in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Joined by Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, efforts include drone aid and substantial relief donations. Central and state governments closely collaborate to manage the crisis and provide assistance.

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Thursday conducted an aerial survey of flood-affected areas in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. Sharing his observations, Chouhan said, 'Today, I will visit Vijayawada and other flood-affected areas of Andhra Pradesh and will talk to the brothers, sisters, and farmers there. I will also hold a meeting with officials in Vijayawada to assess the damage caused in the flood-affected areas.'

On the second day, Chouhan is set to visit Khammam district in Telangana and other affected regions. Accompanied by a team from the Union Agriculture Ministry, Chouhan stated, 'Our officials will hold meetings with state government officials to assess crop damage,' adding that the central government is closely monitoring the situation. 'In this hour of crisis, the central government stands fully with the people of the flood-affected areas of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana and will provide all possible help to them in overcoming the crisis,' he assured.

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan announced on Wednesday that drones are being used to provide food and water to flood-affected areas in the state. Kalyan also donated Rs 1 crore to the Chief Minister Relief Fund (CMRF). 'Drones are being operated to supply food and water in flood-affected areas,' Kalyan said. He added that 19 people have died, 200 animals were found dead, and over 600,000 people have been evacuated. Heavy rains have particularly affected Krishna and Guntur districts, damaging roads and waterlogging 129 hectares of land. Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu urged the public to support flood relief efforts, saying, 'We have supplied enough food and transportation. Everything is available now.'

The state has received assistance from the central government, with 30 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams and helicopters aiding in rescue operations. Over 2.3 lakh food packets, 2.5 lakh milk packets, and 5 lakh water bottles have been distributed. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)