PNS|Vijayawada
Ten people lost their lives in separate lightning strikes across Andhra Pradesh on Sunday, prompting Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu to announce immediate compensation for their families. The victims were reported from Bapatla (2), Prakasam (2), Eluru (1), Tirupati (4) and Nellore (1).
The Chief Minister also directed officials to disburse compensation to farmers affected by the recent unseasonal rains by Monday evening. He emphasised that every farmer who suffered crop loss must receive timely assistance from the government.
During a review meeting held at the Secretariat with agriculture and disaster management officials, Naidu assessed the damage caused by the rains across the State. District Collectors participated via video conference. Officials presented a preliminary report, stating that crops in several districts had been damaged.
According to the report, 2,224 hectares of paddy and maize crops were damaged, with major losses in West Godavari (1,033 ha), Nandyal (641 ha), Kakinada (530 ha), and Sri Sathya Sai (20 ha).
Additionally, horticulture crops over 138 hectares — including banana, papaya and mango — were affected in Krishna, Eluru, Kakinada, NTR, Tirupati and West Godavari districts.
Naidu reiterated that no farmer should be left behind and directed that no one should claim their paddy had not been purchased. The Civil Supplies Department has set a target to procure 20 lakh metric tonnes of Rabi paddy, of which 13 lakh tonnes have already been purchased. The government is also prepared to procure rain-discoloured paddy.
Stressing a humane approach, the CM urged officials to act with empathy during disasters. He instructed field-level staff to personally alert residents if mobile alerts fail. Given further rain warnings, he directed all departments to remain on high alert for the next two days.
Naidu also highlighted the need to leverage the Real-Time Governance System (RTGS) for timely weather alerts, while ensuring human intervention in areas where technology may not reach. Recalling the effective handling of Cyclone Hudhud, he called for similar preparedness now.
He instructed officials to coordinate with field staff and ensure there are no further casualties. Veterinary care and compensation must also be extended for cattle lost due to lightning.
The Chief Minister appreciated the Electricity Department staff for their prompt restoration of power in the affected regions, helping minimise disruption to public life.
