Severe Cyclone Montha, which crossed the Andhra Pradesh coast in the early hours of Wednesday, affected nearly 18 lakh people, damaged crops spread over 2.14 lakh acres, and caused destruction to 2,294 km of roads maintained by the Roads and Buildings Department, according to an initial government assessment.
Two people lost their lives in the cyclone, while 42 heads of cattle were reported dead A total of 1.16 lakh people have been sheltered in 1,209 relief camps across the affected districts.
According to officials, the cyclone impacted 18 lakh people across 249 mandals, 1,434 villages, and 48 municipalities in the state.
Officials briefed Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu that crops over 2.14 lakh acres in 1,825 villages of 304 mandals were damaged. Paddy, cotton, maize, and millet crops on more than 1.45 lakh acres were submerged, affecting 78,796 farmers.
Roads measuring 2,294 km under the Roads and Buildings Department were damaged, resulting in a loss of ₹1,424 crore. Several Panchayat Raj roads, along with 14 bridges and culverts, were also damaged.
The Water Supply Department reported losses of ₹36 crore, while damages to the Irrigation Department were estimated at ₹16.45 crore.
Officials informed the Chief Minister that floodwaters were overflowing 297 roads, and measures were being taken to divert the water. A total of 380 trees that had fallen on roads were removed by authorities.
The Chief Minister, who visited the cyclone-affected Konaseema district and conducted an aerial survey of the impacted areas, directed officials to restore power supply and road connectivity immediately.
He also instructed that rice and essential commodities be distributed quickly to families staying in rehabilitation centres.
Officials told the Chief Minister that rainfall had subsided across the state after the cyclone crossed the coast.
Earlier, Naidu visited Udelarevu in Konaseema district, where he interacted with people at a relief camp and distributed essential supplies. He also inspected the damaged crops and assured that enumeration of losses was underway.
Stating that he had witnessed many cyclones and crises during his career, Naidu said that this time the state administration, district officials, and public representatives worked together effectively to assist the people.
He added that due to the government’s preparedness, the situation was handled efficiently. “Except for two deaths, there was no other loss of human life,” he said.
The Chief Minister noted that Nellore, Prakasam, and Bapatla districts were affected by heavy rains, while strong winds caused damage in several other districts.
(IANS)
