The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Telangana, highlighting anticipated heavy rainfall across Jayashankar Bhupalapalle, Komaram Bheem, Mancherial, and Mulugu districts until September 7. This prolonged downpour has prompted the closure of schools and colleges in these regions, with local authorities on high alert for potential disruptions and further rainfall.
In Andhra Pradesh, the situation is similarly grave, with an orange alert declared for NTR and Krishna districts. This alert, indicative of extreme weather conditions, has led to the closure of educational institutions in NTR district as a precautionary measure. The orange alert signifies that the area is expected to face intense rainfall, thunderstorms, and other severe weather events that could significantly impact daily life and safety. The heavy rains, coupled with a cyclonic circulation over coastal Andhra Pradesh, have caused widespread flooding, severely affecting infrastructure and agriculture. Tragically, the floods have claimed 35 lives across both states. Floodwaters have submerged roads, rail tracks, and farmlands, complicating efforts to access essential services.
While the floodwaters are beginning to recede in some areas, relief operations are intensifying. Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu have visited affected regions, pledging continued support. Union Minister G Kishan Reddy has assured that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah are coordinating with state officials to provide necessary assistance. The Indian Air Force and Navy have been actively involved in relief efforts, conducting supply drops and rescues. In Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, helicopters have delivered 50,000 kg of relief material. However, residents are facing power shortages, and some have reported exploitation by private boat operators charging excessive fees.
In Telangana, government employees have contributed ₹130 crore from their salaries to support relief efforts. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹5 lakh to families who have lost loved ones in the floods. Additionally, celebrities such as Telugu actors N Balakrishna and Mahesh Babu have pledged ₹50 lakh each to the relief funds in both states, demonstrating significant support for the ongoing relief efforts.
