What Actions is CM Fadnavis Taking Amid Maharashtra's Heavy Rains?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Immediate assistance is being provided to affected individuals.
- Heavy rains have impacted approximately 12 to 14 lakh acres of crops.
- Coordination with neighboring states is crucial for managing water discharge.
- Residents are receiving rainfall alerts every three hours.
- The Mithi River situation is being actively monitored by authorities.
Mumbai, Aug 19 (NationPress) In light of the continuous and torrential rains causing flooding throughout Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has urged all agencies to maintain a heightened state of alert to manage the evolving situation.
"District collectors are instructed to extend immediate support in instances of loss of life, livestock, and property damage. Prompt assessments of agricultural damage are to be conducted, and steps have been taken to ensure compensation according to NDRF guidelines," he informed the media following a cabinet meeting focused on the rain-induced challenges.
According to Fadnavis, preliminary assessments indicate that approximately 12 to 14 lakh acres of crops have been impacted.
"The rainfall intensity remains unabated. Consequently, directives have been issued to NDRF, SDRF, and various disaster management teams to remain vigilant and cooperate effectively. Alerts are being disseminated to residents regarding rainfall updates every three hours based on data from weather stations. A cloudburst situation has been reported in the Nanded district, resulting in initial fatalities of eight individuals. All disaster control units statewide are instructed to stay alert and ensure information sharing remains seamless," he elaborated.
"The state continues to face substantial rainfall. Due to this, the outflow from various irrigation projects is under close observation. Coordination with neighboring states regarding water discharge is being actively maintained, particularly for increased discharge from Hippargi. Efforts are also underway with the water resources departments of Telangana," noted the Chief Minister.
Fadnavis emphasized that the Mumbai Metropolitan Region has been particularly affected by the relentless rains, which have persisted since Monday.
"Water accumulation is evident in numerous low-lying areas. However, all systems of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, along with state resources, are collaborating efficiently. There were temporary disruptions in suburban local train services. All relevant agencies are exerting maximum effort to manage the situation. As a precautionary measure, a holiday was declared for offices in the Mumbai city area," he added.
A red alert was previously issued for Vasai and Palghar due to a low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal, which is expected to cause heavy rainfall. A system has been established to provide alerts every three hours regarding rainfall distribution, as stated in a government release.
"Intense rainfall has been recorded in the catchment areas of several rivers across the state. This has caused some rivers to approach critical levels. In Mumbai, the Mithi River has surpassed its danger mark, necessitating the evacuation of around 400 individuals to safety. Currently, the situation is under control. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is closely monitoring the circumstances in Mumbai, having visited the Mithi River area. It's evident that significant challenges persist in the removal of silt from the Mithi River; consequently, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has been directed to address this issue promptly," stated the Chief Minister.