Andhra Pradesh flood damages Rs 6800 crores

Andhra Pradesh Flood Damages Estimated at ₹6,800 Crore

Introduction

The recent floods in Andhra Pradesh have caused significant damage across multiple sectors, affecting infrastructure, agriculture, and livelihoods. According to preliminary estimates prepared by the state government, the  total losses have been pegged at ₹6,800 crore. These estimates will be submitted to the Central Government in a bid to secure necessary funds and aid for recovery and rehabilitation efforts. The impact of the floods has been widespread, with thousands of farmers and households affected across the state.

Extent of Damage to Agriculture

One of the most severely impacted sectors is agriculture, with crops damaged on approximately 1.69 lakh acres of land. Horticultural crops have also suffered, with destruction recorded on about 18,000 acres. The floods have affected around 2.34 lakh farmers, leading to a significant loss of income and threatening food security in the region. The state government is expected to roll out measures to support these farmers, including financial aid, seeds, and other essential inputs to help them recover from the devastation.

Breakdown of Department-Wise Losses

The Andhra Pradesh government has provided a detailed breakdown of the flood-related losses across various departments. Here’s a closer look at the estimated damages:

• Roads and Buildings Department: The Roads and Buildings Department has reported losses amounting to ₹2,164.5 crore. This includes extensive damage to national and state highways, as well as rural roads, leading to disrupted transportation and logistics across the state.
• Irrigation Department: The Irrigation Department has faced damages worth ₹1,568.6 crore. Floodwaters have damaged canals, dams, and other critical infrastructure, impacting water supply for agriculture and domestic use.
• Municipal Administration: The Municipal Administration sector has incurred losses of ₹1,160 crore, with urban infrastructure including drainage systems and public facilities being severely affected by the floods.
• Revenue Department: Losses in the Revenue Department are estimated at ₹750 crore. This encompasses damage to government properties, administrative buildings, and the costs associated with relief operations.
• Electricity Department: The Electricity Department has reported damages of ₹481 crore, as power lines and substations have been damaged, leading to widespread power outages across flood-hit regions.
• Agriculture Department: The Agriculture Department’s losses are pegged at ₹301 crore, covering the extensive damage to crops and agricultural infrastructure across the state.
• Panchayati Raj Roads: The Panchayati Raj Roads have sustained damages worth ₹167.5 crore, impacting the rural connectivity essential for daily life and the movement of goods.
• Fisheries Department: The Fisheries Department has reported losses of ₹157.86 crore, with numerous fish farms and related businesses being washed away by the floods.

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• Rural Water Supply Department: The Rural Water Supply Department has reported damages of ₹75.5 crore, affecting the provision of clean drinking water to rural areas.
• Horticulture Department: The Horticulture Department has estimated losses at ₹39.9 crore, highlighting the impact on high-value crops such as fruits, vegetables, and spices.
• Animal Husbandry Department: The Animal Husbandry Department has reported damages worth ₹11.5 crore, affecting livestock and related infrastructure.
• Fire Department: The Fire Department has recorded losses amounting to ₹2 crore, which includes damage to equipment and facilities crucial for emergency response during the floods.

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Government’s Response and Future Steps

The Andhra Pradesh government is actively working on a comprehensive response to address the flood-related damages. Chief Minister Sri ChandraBabu Naidu has directed officials to expedite the assessment process and prepare detailed reports to be sent to the Centre for financial assistance. The government aims to ensure swift rehabilitation for those affected and restore normalcy in the state. Immediate measures include providing relief materials, temporary shelters, and essential supplies to displaced families.

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