VIJAYAWADA: Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha on Monday urged citizens to avoid forwarding or posting unverified information about Cyclone Montha on social media, warning that misinformation could create panic and confusion.
The Minister assured that the State government is fully prepared to handle any situation arising from the cyclone’s impact. In a press release, she said Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu had instructed all departments to remain in close coordination, with precautionary measures actively implemented in cyclone-affected areas over the past three days.
Anitha said that continuous reviews are being conducted from the Real-Time Governance (RTG) Centre by the Chief Minister and IT Minister Nara Lokesh, with the entire administrative machinery on high alert. A coordinated response plan has been put in place involving district collectors, superintendents of police, and all key departments to ensure swift action.
Special officers have been appointed in cyclone-prone districts, and funds released to support relief and rehabilitation. Control rooms have been established in all districts to provide round-the-clock updates and assistance to the public through official media and verified social platforms.
Emphasising responsible reporting, the Minister observed that while digital platforms are vital for quick communication, some outlets have been spreading sensational or misleading content that fuels fear, particularly in flood-prone regions. She appealed to content creators, digital media outlets, and news organisations to ensure their coverage remains factual, verified, and non-alarmist.
Anitha reiterated that public safety remains the government’s top priority. She urged citizens to remain calm.