VIJAYAWADA: In a remarkable relief effort, the State government disbursed ₹602 crore to four lakh flood victims within a record time of just 15 days after the floodwaters receded.
Speaking at the NTR District Collectorate in Vijayawada, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu outlined the devastating impact of the floods, which caused ₹7,600 crore in damages, affecting both public and private assets. He commended the swift response from the government, which received ₹400 crore in donations through the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund (CMRF), calling it a historic outpouring of support from the public.
Naidu praised the unity displayed during the crisis, stating, "Young and old alike responded to the relief efforts. Together, we can overcome any disaster."
The floods affected 16 districts, and the government provided financial aid of ₹25,000 to residents of submerged ground-floor houses and ₹10,000 to those living on higher floors. Additional assistance was given to those who suffered damages to their two-wheelers, autos, grocery stores, and pushcarts.
Naidu also highlighted the efforts of government employees, who worked tirelessly for 11 days, and mentioned that unprecedented inflows of 11.90 lakh cusecs were received at the Prakasam Barrage. He criticized the previous YSRC government for the flooding caused by the breach of the Budameru Rivulet.
In a coordinated relief effort, food, water, and essential items were distributed to flood victims, and 780 earthmovers were deployed. Fire engines cleaned 75,000 houses and 331 kilometers of roads, although 47 lives were tragically lost.
The government also facilitated repairs for 5,900 households through Urban Company, which provided 500 technicians at no cost and offered discounts on spare parts. Personal loans of ₹25,000 to ₹50,000 were provided to those affected, and existing loans were rescheduled.
Naidu further directed that all certificates lost in the flood, including driving licenses, Aadhaar cards, and birth certificates, be reissued free of charge. Students in both private and government schools would receive new books at no cost to replace those lost in the floods.