How Did Cyclone Montha Impact Andhra Pradesh?
 
                                    
                                    
                                    
                                Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Cyclone Montha caused extensive damage across Andhra Pradesh.
- Over 18 lakh residents were affected.
- Crop damage spanned 2.14 lakh acres.
- Infrastructure losses are estimated at Rs 1,424 crore.
- Relief efforts are underway, with shelters provided for 1.16 lakh individuals.
Amaravati, Oct 29 (NationPress) The devastating cyclone Montha, which made landfall on the Andhra Pradesh coast in the early hours of Wednesday, impacted 18 lakh residents, caused significant damage to crops spanning 2.14 lakh acres, and affected 2,294 km of roads under the Roads and Buildings department, as per the government's preliminary assessment.
Tragically, two lives were lost due to the cyclone, with an additional 42 cattle fatalities.
Relief efforts have provided shelter to 1.16 lakh individuals in 1,209 camps across the impacted districts.
Officials reported that the cyclone impacted 18 lakh people across 249 mandals, 1,434 villages, and 48 municipalities in the state.
The Chief Minister, N. Chandrababu Naidu, was briefed that the cyclone damaged crops in 2.14 lakh acres within 1,825 villages across 304 mandals. Notably, crops such as paddy, cotton, maize, and millet on over 1.45 lakh acres were submerged, affecting 78,796 farmers.
The Roads and Buildings department reported damage to 2,294 km of roads, incurring a loss of Rs 1,424 crore. Furthermore, several Panchayat Raj roads, 14 bridges, and culverts were also compromised.
The Water Supply Department faced losses estimated at Rs 36 crore, while the Irrigation Department’s damages are projected at Rs 16.45 crore.
The Chief Minister was informed that flooding is affecting 297 roads, with efforts underway to redirect the water.
Authorities have cleared 380 fallen trees from the roads.
During a visit to the cyclone-affected Konaseema district, the Chief Minister conducted an aerial survey of the impacted areas and instructed officials to restore power and roads promptly.
He emphasized the quick distribution of rice and essential goods to families in rehabilitation centers.
Officials communicated to the Chief Minister that rainfall had subsided in the state after the cyclone passed.
Previously, Naidu visited cyclone-hit Udelarevu in Konaseema district, where he interacted with individuals at a relief camp and distributed essential supplies.
The Chief Minister, who witnessed the extent of crop damage, assured that loss assessments are ongoing.
Having experienced numerous cyclones and crises, he noted that this time, the collaborative efforts of state-level officials, district administration, and public representatives significantly aided the response. He remarked, “Aside from the two fatalities, there were no further human losses.”
The Chief Minister indicated that districts like Nellore, Prakasam, and Bapatla faced heavy rainfall, while strong winds caused damage in other areas.
 
                         
                                             
                                             
                                             
                                             
                             
                             
                             
                            