"Result of natural causes, previous govt's neglect....": Andhra Pradesh CM Naidu on rainfall situation

Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh) [India], September 1 (ANI): Amidst the rain situation in Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu inspected the flood-affected areas in the state and said that the disaster is a result of natural causes and the previous government's neglect of the Budameru Canal.
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu also assured swift government assistance and said that helpline numbers will be provided to the public, adding that he would oversee the entire operation.
"The Budameru Canal's waters have spread to this area, causing a huge problem. Thousands of people are stranded in their homes and on rooftops. I will monitor the situation hourly and stay here to oversee the efforts. This disaster is a result of natural causes and the previous government's neglect of the Budameru Canal," CM Naidu told the media.
"All rescue teams are being mobilised, and the government will make every effort to assist. Food and essential supplies will be delivered to the public by boat. We will also use boats to evacuate those in need of medical assistance. Helpline numbers will be provided to the public, and I will oversee the entire operation. We will organise more boats and bring in additional NDRF teams," added the CM.

Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh IT and Education Minister Nara Lokesh also visited flood-affected areas in Mangalagiri and interacted with the public to gather information and assess the situation.

Severe waterlogging was witnessed in various parts of Vijayawada, leading to a flood-like situation due to the heavy rainfall.

Visuals show commuters facing neck deep rainwaters. Many vehicles were also seen submerged in the floodwaters.

The Budameru Vagu river, also known as the 'Sorrow of Vijayawada' is in spate following heavy rains and is leading to a flood-like situation in various parts of the city.

Earlier on Saturday, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu held a review meeting instructing officials to remain vigilant and alert in rain-affected areas.
He also directed the declaration of school holidays in regions experiencing heavy rainfall, the installation of warning boards near overflowing streams and rivers, and the issuance of alert messages to mobile phones.
Naidu warned of potential hazards, including falling power lines and trees due to strong winds and rain.
Parts of Vijayawada and Warangal in Telangana were affected by rain on Saturday, leading to waterlogging in several areas. (ANI)