How Did Telangana Floods Affect Over 2.36 Lakh Acres of Crops?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 2.36 lakh acres of crops affected by floods.
- Chief Minister emphasizes swift restoration of infrastructure.
- SDRF funds need to be utilized effectively.
- Community involvement is crucial for recovery efforts.
- Future disaster preparedness is a priority for the government.
Hyderabad, Sep 1 (NationPress) - The recent torrential rains and subsequent floods in various regions of Telangana have led to significant destruction, damaging roads extending over 1,023 kilometers and resulting in crop losses across 2.36 lakh acres.
During a review meeting on Monday, officials updated Chief Minister Revanth Reddy on the situation.
The Chief Minister directed officials to accelerate the restoration efforts for the damaged roads, buildings, and inundated electric substations.
He expressed frustration regarding the officials' failure to utilize the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) appropriately.
Reports indicated that 257 streams and ponds had been compromised. The CM inquired about the oversight by the Minor Irrigation Department and recommended that funds from the RRR, Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sanchai Yojana, and other national schemes be used for restoring the water bodies.
According to the State Agriculture Department, crop damages have occurred in 82 mandals throughout the state.
Officials were instructed to provide a detailed report within two days to highlight the gravity of the situation to the central government. Departments including State R&B, Panchayat Raj, Drinking Water Supply, and Animal Husbandry were also tasked with preparing comprehensive reports swiftly.
The CM raised concerns over the lack of support from the central government, especially following substantial losses in the flood-stricken districts of Khammam and Warangal last year.
He called for a detailed report on unfulfilled promises from the central government regarding fund releases, damages incurred, and the extent of losses.
A team led by Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka is scheduled to present two reports to Union Ministers in Delhi on September 4.
The CM also communicated with Collectors from Kamareddy, Adilabad, Rajanna Siricilla, and Komaram Bheem Asifabad to assess conditions post-heavy rainfall. He instructed that relief efforts be prioritized and materials be distributed without delay.
In reviewing disaster fund utilization, CM Revanth Reddy urged all departments to make proper use of SDRF funds and submit utilization certificates in a timely manner.
The Chief Minister praised the SDRF teams for their rapid response to emergencies, noting that they successfully rescued 217 individuals during 42 operations amid the severe rains. He requested that the State Director General of Fire and Disaster Response, Nagireddy, enhance training and skills for SDRF personnel. The Chief Secretary was also instructed to promptly assign necessary officers and staff to the Disaster Management Department.
CM Revanth Reddy acknowledged the increasing unpredictability of weather patterns, which heighten the risk of future floods. He emphasized the importance of Collectors and SPs in all districts staying vigilant and monitoring relief efforts on the ground during disasters.
It was determined that Rs. 10 crore would be allocated to collectors for initiatives in districts severely impacted by the rains, while Rs. 5 crore would be given to collectors in districts experiencing minor damages.