Hyderabad: Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy directed Collectors to remain alert as Telangana heavy rains could continue for another two days.
The minister issued the directions after the weather department warned of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall under the influence of a low-pressure system. He particularly asked Collectors in red-alert districts to maintain heightened vigilance. Moreover, he directed officials to take precautionary and relief measures in advance.
The minister identified Peddapalli, Jayashankar Bhupalpally and Mulugu among the districts requiring special attention. Bhadradri Kothagudem, Khammam, Mahabubabad, Warangal and Hanamkonda also figured on the list.
Officials should closely monitor conditions in low-lying and flood-affected areas, Srinivasa Reddy said. In addition, he asked them to keep a close watch on streams and tanks. The minister directed district authorities to remain prepared to move people to safer locations wherever necessary.
Furthermore, he asked every district to establish a control room that would remain accessible round the clock. Collectors should also set up toll-free numbers to provide immediate assistance to the public.
District administrations should coordinate their response during emergencies, the minister said. In particular, officials should immediately act on complaints received from people during emergency situations.
The measures followed the rainfall warning for the next two days. Consequently, authorities in the red-alert districts were asked to focus on advance preparedness and continuous monitoring.
Telangana heavy rains: Public urged to exercise caution
Srinivasa Reddy also urged people to avoid going outside unless necessary during the period of Telangana heavy rains. He advised the public not to approach streams, tanks or areas experiencing flood flows. Meanwhile, district officials were asked to monitor vulnerable locations continuously.
The minister said authorities should remain ready to evacuate residents from vulnerable areas if conditions required such action. The directions focused on keeping district administrations prepared for possible emergencies while ensuring quick assistance to people in affected areas.