Andhra Pradesh Appeals for ₹900 Crore Aid After Cyclone Montha’s Revised Damage Hits ₹6,384 Crore
The Andhra Pradesh government has urgently sought an additional ₹900 crore in central assistance after reassessing Cyclone Montha’s devastation, with losses now estimated at ₹6,384 crore. The cyclone, which struck coastal districts earlier this month, caused extensive damage to agriculture, infrastructure, and homes, leaving thousands in distress.
Revised Damage Report Reveals Widespread Destruction
Initial estimates pegged losses at ₹3,000 crore, but a detailed state survey revealed far greater impacts:
- Agriculture Crisis: Crops across 2.5 lakh hectares—including paddy, maize, and horticulture like bananas—were destroyed, with losses at ₹3,200 crore.
- Infrastructure Collapse: Roads, bridges, and irrigation systems in Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, and Visakhapatnam suffered ₹1,500 crore in damages.
- Housing and Livelihoods: Over 50,000 homes were damaged, displacing families, while fisheries and livestock sectors faced severe setbacks.
State’s Plea for Central Support
Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has written to PM Modi, requesting immediate release of ₹900 crore under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF). The state has already allocated ₹500 crore from its reserves but emphasizes the need for faster rehabilitation.
“The devastation is beyond our capacity. Central aid is crucial for rebuilding lives,” a state disaster official stated.
Political Clash Over Relief Efforts
The opposition TDP accused the YSR Congress of delayed response, while the government highlighted successful evacuations of 1 lakh people. Revenue Minister Dharmana Krishnadas reiterated, “Lives were saved first; recovery is now our focus.”
Long-Term Recovery Challenges
- Farmers’ Distress: Kharif crop losses have pushed farmers into debt; activists demand loan waivers.
- Infrastructure Gaps: Coastal villages remain inaccessible due to damaged roads and pending power repairs.
- Fisherfolk Struggle: 5,000+ fishing boats were destroyed, crippling livelihoods.
Next Steps: Central Team to Evaluate Damage
A Central inter-ministerial team will soon visit Andhra Pradesh to verify losses before approving additional funds. The state has submitted a detailed memorandum to expedite aid.
Public Frustration Grows
Affected communities protest delayed relief, with farmers in Vizianagaram lamenting, “Help hasn’t reached us yet.”
Conclusion: A Call for Climate Resilience
Cyclone Montha underscores the need for robust disaster preparedness on India’s eastern coast. While Andhra Pradesh rallies for immediate aid, experts urge long-term solutions like cyclone-proof infrastructure.
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