Chief Secretary Appeals for Central Aid After Unprecedented Rainfall Damage

Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari briefed a central team on the extensive damage from recent heavy rainfall. Despite short notice, swift state action minimized human loss. The Chief Minister formed specialized teams for emergency rescues, seeking NDMA support and flexible guidelines for extensive relief efforts.

Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari briefed the visiting central team led by Col K P Singh about the extensive damage caused across the state due to unprecedented rainfall from August 31 to September 3, according to a statement from the I&PR department. The six-member team discussed relief efforts with the Chief Secretary and senior state officials at the Secretariat.

Despite receiving the weather alert on short notice, the state administration acted swiftly, resulting in minimal loss of human life, the statement added. The Chief Minister regularly reviewed the situation, while the Deputy Chief Minister and two other ministers reached Khammam amidst the rains to oversee relief operations. The state government immediately released funds for district relief measures, and the Chief Secretary urged the central team to adopt more flexible guidelines to enable extensive relief efforts.

The Chief Minister has ordered the formation of specialized teams, akin to the NDRF, to handle emergency rescues. She requested NDMA support for training and logistics. The challenge of air rescue during heavy rains and the massive tree felling in 332 hectares in Eturnagaram were highlighted. A detailed study was recommended to determine the root cause of this ecological disaster.

Special Chief Secretary for Disaster Management Arvind Kumar provided an overview of the damages and relief measures. Initial damage estimates stood at Rs 5,438 crores, with further assessments ongoing. Senior officials from various departments briefed the central team through a PowerPoint presentation on the extent of the damage. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)