Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has gone beyond high-level review meetings at the Secretariat and teleconferences with officials by personally visiting cyclone-hit agricultural fields. Walking along muddy field bunds, he conducted ground-level inspections to assess the extensive crop damage caused by recent cyclones. Consoling distressed farmers who suffered heavy losses, Chandrababu assured them that the government stood firmly by their side. He personally examined the damage and directed officials to speed up relief measures after assessing the situation on the ground.
In fact, the Chief Minister had been closely monitoring disaster management operations around the clock since October 27, when cyclone warnings were first issued. During successive cyclones, including ‘Arnab’ and ‘Murasu’, he remained awake even during late-night hours, obtaining minute-by-minute updates from district collectors, RDOs and senior officials about the situation in affected areas.
He provided continuous guidance on evacuating people to safer locations, establishing rehabilitation centres and accelerating relief and rescue operations. By coordinating with the Central Government and closely monitoring the developing situation, he worked to minimise the impact of the disasters.
What makes his response particularly noteworthy is his decision to personally inspect the affected areas rather than relying solely on official reports submitted by authorities. Chandrababu extensively toured Katrenikona in Konaseema district, Mogalthur and Narasapuram in West Godavari district. He also stepped directly into submerged paddy fields in Jillellamudi village of Bapatla district and Returu village in Guntur district, patiently listening to farmers’ grievances.
The Chief Minister personally gathered details from affected farmers about their investments and the extent of crop damage. He immediately instructed officials to provide necessary relief and assistance, restoring confidence among farmers during this difficult time.