Amaravati, Oct 29 (HS):

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday conducted an aerial survey of the regions battered by Cyclone Montha, particularly in the Dr BR Ambedkar Konaseema district, where widespread devastation has been reported.

Naidu visited Udelarevu in Konaseema to assess the ground situation and the extent of damage caused by torrential rains, high-velocity winds, and flooding. From the air, he reviewed submerged villages, damaged farmlands, uprooted trees, and disrupted transport networks across the cyclone-affected belt.

Following the survey, the Chief Minister held a teleconference with ministers, district collectors, and senior officials, directing them to accelerate relief and restoration efforts. He emphasized the need for swift rehabilitation of displaced families and immediate assistance to farmers whose crops were destroyed.

Naidu commended the administration for their pre-emptive evacuation efforts, which helped limit casualties, stating that “the damage was reduced only due to the effective measures taken over the last four to five days.”

The Chief Minister ordered the Irrigation Department to maintain strict vigilance on water levels in reservoirs and canals, and to coordinate with district officials before releasing water from overflowing projects. He also instructed the Power and Roads departments to restore connectivity and electricity in the shortest possible time.

As part of immediate relief, the government has moved over 75,000 people to rehabilitation centers and announced financial aid of ₹1,000 per person, with up to ₹3,000 for larger families. Essential supplies, including rice, dal, edible oil, and vegetables, are being distributed in the worst-hit areas.

Naidu assured that the state government will provide comprehensive support to rebuild damaged infrastructure, rehabilitate farmers, and restore normalcy at the earliest.

“Our focus is on protecting lives, ensuring immediate relief, and helping the affected people get back on their feet. No family will be left behind in this recovery effort,” the Chief Minister said.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar