Heavy rains over the past two days have caused widespread devastation in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, resulting in the deaths of over 30 people. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah have assured support to the affected states, with 26 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams being deployed for relief and rescue efforts. Currently, 12 teams are on the ground, with 14 more on the way.
In response to Andhra Pradesh's urgent need, the central government has dispatched 40 power boats and six helicopters to aid flood relief operations. Additionally, more than 140 train services have been canceled or diverted due to waterlogged tracks. Hyderabad has declared a school holiday on September 2 due to severe rainfall warnings.
In Telangana, over 115 villages are isolated due to damaged roads, with the Khammam and Warangal districts experiencing the worst conditions. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has announced Rs 5 crore in immediate aid and Rs 5 lakh ex-gratia payments for the families of flood victims.
Vijayawada is particularly hard-hit, with the Budameru rivulet flooding localities and disrupting daily life. Residents are struggling to obtain food and basic necessities amidst power cuts and severe water damage. Efforts to airlift food and medical supplies are underway as the situation remains dire.