CM Revanth Reddy puts Telangana on high alert as Cyclone Montha triggers heavy rains
HYDERABAD: Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Wednesday placed the entire state administration on high alert following heavy rains under the influence of Cyclone Montha across Telangana.
Reviewing the situation with senior officials, the Chief Minister sought updates on rainfall impact, particularly on paddy harvesting, and instructed departments to take preventive measures to minimise crop losses. He directed that special arrangements be made at paddy and cotton procurement centres to protect produce from damage.
Relief and rescue measures stepped up
Officials informed the Chief Minister that the cyclone’s impact could be severe in Khammam, Warangal and Nalgonda districts. In Hyderabad, where continuous downpours have inundated several localities, Revanth Reddy instructed the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) and disaster management authorities to deploy emergency teams for rescue operations.
Following the suspension of Golconda Express and Konark Express at Dornakal Junction in Mahabubabad district and Gundratimadugu station, and diversion of other trains by Southern Railway, the Chief Minister directed officials to ensure alternative arrangements for stranded passengers.
The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been asked to conduct coordinated rescue operations under the supervision of district Collectors.
Evacuations and health precautions
With rivulets and canals overflowing, district administrations were instructed to evacuate families from low-lying areas and shift them to relief camps. The Irrigation Department has been told to closely monitor water levels at reservoirs and alert district authorities before releasing water. Sandbags are to be kept ready at critical points.
The Chief Minister directed the police and revenue officials to barricade low-level bridges and stop traffic where flooding is reported. Sanitation staff in urban and rural areas were told to carry out continuous cleaning to prevent the spread of diseases.
Inter-departmental coordination stressed
Revanth Reddy emphasised the need for coordinated functioning of the Revenue, Electricity, Panchayat Raj, Roads & Buildings, Health, Police, Fire, and SDRF departments. He directed GHMC, HYDRAA, Fire and SDRF teams to respond promptly to distress calls in Hyderabad.
He also called for medical camps to be opened, adequate medicine supplies maintained, and measures taken to protect livestock in rain-affected areas.
