Telangana's Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy warned on Tuesday, 21 July that the El Niño weather phenomenon is set to deliver its most severe rainfall deficit in the southern states, with Telangana and Andhra Pradesh facing a particularly acute impact. Speaking after a review meeting at the Hanamkonda Collectorate, the minister said rainfall across the Telugu-speaking states is likely to be significantly below normal this year, triggering a multi-pronged government response covering agriculture, drinking water, and power supply.

State-Level Preparedness Measures

Srinivas Reddy, who also holds charge of Warangal district, chaired the review meeting with district officials to assess contingency plans and departmental readiness. The state government has appointed a senior IAS officer as a Special Officer for each erstwhile district to continuously monitor the rainfall deficit situation. These officers will submit detailed reports covering agriculture conditions, drinking water availability, groundwater levels, and rainfall data directly to the Chief Minister and the state cabinet.

A special action plan has been devised to help districts manage the shortfall, reassure farmers, and prevent drinking water shortages. A comprehensive report on prevailing rain-deficit conditions is also being prepared for submission to the Centre, with the state seeking federal assistance and support.

Deputy CM Outlines Broader Strategy

Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka said the Telangana government is formulating comprehensive plans to shield agriculture, drinking water supply, and the power sector from El Niño's fallout. He was addressing a state-level awareness session in Hyderabad organised by the Planning Department on the theme 'From temperature rise in the Pacific Ocean to Telangana's preparedness.' Minister for Minority Welfare Mohammed Azharuddin also attended the event.

'If the severity of the problem is understood in advance, every family and every village can make their own proper plans,' Bhatti Vikramarka said. He noted that scientists are studying how temperature shifts in the equatorial Pacific Ocean, thousands of kilometres away, ripple through to the state's ponds, canals, and villages — and that action plans are being drawn up accordingly.

Agriculture and Water Security

The government is promoting a policy of alternative, low-water crops based on expert recommendations to ensure farmers do not suffer economic losses even if drought conditions materialise. Advance plans are also being prepared to secure drinking water, irrigation water, and water and food requirements for cattle, birds, and wildlife across the state.

Power Demand Surges to Summer Peak Levels

Bhatti Vikramarka, who also holds the energy portfolio, flagged an unusual power demand surge driven by El Niño. Electricity consumption — typically low during the monsoon season — has currently reached levels comparable to the April summer peak, with demand for fans, air conditioners, borewells, and lift irrigation motors running without the usual day-night distinction.

To manage this, the government is maximising the use of low-cost solar power during daytime hours to reduce financial burden, while using thermal power systematically for residual needs. Grid stability is being maintained through efficient solar-thermal coordination, the Deputy CM said.

Public Awareness Drive

The awareness session aims to prepare individuals, families, villages, mandals, and districts to respond at their respective levels. Bhatti Vikramarka commended television channels for broadcasting the information live to rural households. The government's stated goal is to ensure that no community is caught off guard by the unfolding climatic conditions.

With both the Revenue Ministry and the Deputy CM's office now actively coordinating El Niño response, the coming weeks will test whether Telangana's preparedness framework translates into on-ground relief for farmers and residents facing an increasingly water-stressed season.