Amaravati, August 31 (HS). CM Chandrababu Naidu has been continuously reviewing the heavy rains in the state since morning. All the programs of the Chief Minister for today and tomorrow have been cancelled and the situation of the rain affected areas and the relief measures have been reviewed.
Today evening, CM once again held a teleconference with CS, DGP, Home Minister, District Collector and SP at the Secretariat. He ordered immediate release of Rs 3 crore to each district for relief measures. The officials explained to the CM that 8 people have died in the state so far due to heavy rains. CM ordered compensation of Rs 5 lakh each to the affected families. CM ordered the collectors of the 3 flood affected districts of the state to be more vigilant.
The CM suggested that all government departments should be on full alert in view of the forecast of rain on Sunday as well. The CM explained to the officials that according to the Meteorological Department, the storm is likely to cross the coast between Srikakulam and Visakhapatnam at midnight today.
The CM ordered to alert the people of the villages adjoining the coast in 3 districts of Uttarandhra. Collectors of three districts should be more vigilant. Officials said that when the storm crosses the coast, the winds will blow at a speed of 55 to 65 km. They should be prepared with a clear forecast about the speed of the winds while crossing the coast. The Chief Minister suggested that the officials should analyze the speed of the storm and prepare a plan accordingly. It is clear that the officials should work to reduce the damage, and not react after the damage.
He has appealed to the people not to go out unless there is an emergency until the rain subsides. 10 to 20 cm of rain has been recorded at some places and it seems that it will rain on Sunday as well. The CM advised people to be cautious.
State minister Kollu Ravindra and officials explained to the CM that the water level at Budameru in West Godavari district was high and the irrigation department needed to keep a close watch.
Officials said steps were being taken to drain out water accumulated on roads in Vijayawada city.