VIJAYAWADA: With Andhra Pradesh staring at a weak southwest monsoon under the influence of El Niño, the State government has activated a comprehensive disaster preparedness plan, placing all departments on high alert to minimise its impact.
Backing its preparedness with substantial financial support, the government has released Rs 479.01 crore under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for the current financial year while earmarking Rs 521.17 crore for long-term disaster mitigation projects, reinforcing its focus on protecting lives and livelihoods through advance planning, coordinated response and timely public alerts rather than reacting after disasters.
It should be noted that the rainfall situation has emerged as a major concern. Andhra Pradesh recorded a 25 per cent rainfall deficit in June, while the shortfall has crossed 40 per cent in July so far. The current projection indicates that the monsoon could conclude with an overall deficit of around 27 per cent, raising the possibility of widespread drought conditions across several districts.
The government has already identified 105 mandals that are likely to face severe drought, and another 208 mandals that may witness moderate drought.
Sri Sathya Sai, Anantapur and Annamayya districts are expected to bear the maximum impact, while parts of Kurnool, Nandyal, Chittoor, Kadapa, Tirupati, Prakasam, Markapuram and Nellore may face considerable water stress.
State & district level control rooms to work round the clock
Against this backdrop, the Agriculture Department has been directed to encourage alternative cropping patterns, ensure the availability of seeds and fertilisers and promote water-efficient cultivation methods such as Direct Seeded Rice (DSR), System of Rice Intensification (SRI) and natural farming practices. Farmers will also receive regular weather-based advisories to help them make informed decisions during the cropping season.
At the same time, the government has strengthened its early warning and emergency response systems. Round-the-clock control rooms will function at both the State and district levels, while weather alerts generated by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), APSDMA and RTGS will be disseminated through SMS, WhatsApp, social media and electronic media to ensure timely communication with vulnerable communities.
Meanwhile, the government’s preparedness plan also extends to drinking water, livestock, fisheries and healthcare. Measures have been initiated to ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply in vulnerable villages, adequate fodder and veterinary support for livestock, timely marine weather warnings for fishermen and sufficient stocks of medicines, ORS packets and IV fluids.
