VIJAYAWADA: Despite Wednesday's overcast skies and drizzle, flood relief efforts persisted for the fourth consecutive day in Vijayawada. While floodwaters receded in some areas, delivering aid to the last mile remained a significant challenge.
Recent reports indicate that the total death toll from the rains and floods has reached 32 in the state. Of these, 23 fatalities occurred in the NTR district, with two individuals reported missing. The actual toll could be higher, as several bodies found in affected areas are yet to be officially accounted for.
As waters receded, some residents who had evacuated their homes returned only to find their properties severely damaged. Many were seen sifting through debris and salvaging what they could before relocating to safer places. Families, often accompanied by their children, were spotted carrying their belongings in bags or cloth sacks, highlighting the immense hardship they faced.
Chief Minister Reviews Relief Efforts
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu reviewed the relief operations on Wednesday, making field visits to encourage affected residents and oversee the response efforts. Addressing the media, Naidu reported that work to remove mud and debris had begun.
A total of 400 sanitation workers have been deployed, many of whom were brought in from municipal bodies across the state. Additionally, 100 fire engines were utilized to clear slush from inundated neighborhoods. Naidu noted that nearly seven lakh people have been affected by the floods. He praised the collaborative efforts of officials and workers, ranging from the Chief Secretary to municipal sanitation staff.
"We are striving to reach every affected person. By 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, 91% of the victims had received food aid. We are focusing on areas with restricted access," Naidu said.
During a late-night press briefing, Naidu acknowledged the hard work of officials and employees involved in the relief operations. As floodwaters receded, power was restored in several areas. The focus has shifted from providing prepared meals to distributing essential commodities in stages. Naidu assured that the prices of essential goods would be regulated and the supply of drinking water increased. He also expressed gratitude to those who donated to the Chief Minister's Relief Fund.
Relief Distribution
According to I&PR Minister K. Parthasarathy, relief packages including 25 kg of rice, 1 kg each of red gram, oil, sugar, onion, and potatoes were distributed to flood-affected families. Weaver and fishermen's families received an additional 25 kg of rice. Parthasarathy also reported that drinking water was being supplied through 182 tanks, while municipal water supply had been restored for other uses. Of the 6,44,536 people affected, 45,369 have been relocated to 214 relief camps, and 158 medical camps have been set up. 
Financial Support
Despite small donations, Rs 1 crore was collected in a single day, providing crucial support to the relief efforts.