Naidu’s relief efforts set benchmark for disaster response: Home Minister

Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha has lauded Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu for his exemplary leadership during the recent devastating floods in Vijayawada. In a press briefing on Tuesday, she highlighted the CM’s effective disaster management strategies, comparing his approach to past crises like Hud-Hud, Titli, and the current floods.
“CM Naidu’s immediate relief efforts, constant reviews, and field visits have set a benchmark for disaster response,” Anitha stated. She commended the government’s swift actions, including the allocation of funds for restoration and relief work, and the innovative use of technologies like drone-based food delivery and chlorination.
The Minister also took a critical stance against the Opposition, accusing them of downplaying the severity of the floods and alleging a conspiracy to damage the Prakasam Barrage led by former chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. “Instead of supporting the flood victims, the Opposition seems more interested in undermining the efforts of the government,” she said.
In response to the floods, electricity and water services were restored within 3-4 days. Senior IAS officers and a dedicated minister were assigned to assist the victims. However, concerns were raised about the effectiveness of nylon ropes in securing boats and the whereabouts of boats intended for Uddandarayunipalem.
Anitha addressed fears regarding the potential risks posed by boats to the barrage gates, mentioning allegations involving Ushasri Charan and Komati Ram Mohan. “Investigations are underway into these concerns, including the involvement of boats bearing YSR Congress party colours and the actions of former MP Nandigam Suresh and former programme coordinator of CM Thalashila Raghuram,” she noted.
Anitha defended Naidu’s performance, emphasising his commitment to addressing the situation with efficiency. “It is unfair to criticise Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, who, at 74, is actively working to manage these disasters. His leadership remains instrumental in our ongoing response,” she asserted.
Efforts are underway to register flood victims across districts, with an app facilitating the process. Anitha concluded that the government’s response to the Vijayawada floods will serve as a valuable case study for future disaster management strategies.
Looking ahead, government efforts will focus on tackling encroachments in Kolleru, Budameru, and Eleru catchment areas. “We are committed to addressing the issues identified by past administrations and are enhancing our disaster management protocols accordingly,” Anitha affirmed.
Plans are also in place to prevent landslides in vulnerable areas of Visakhapatnam, with a comprehensive report expected after a thorough investigation.
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