Andhra Pradesh Government may consider seeking Army and Air Force help for rescue and relief operations as a result of the floods caused by heavy rains in the State.

Chief Minister N. Kiran Kumar Reddy has directed the Chief Secretary P. K. Mohanty and District Collectors to be on high-alert and closely monitor the flood situation. He suggested that Army, Air Force and Navy help may be sought if necessary.

Two National Disaster Relief teams have been pressed into serve for rescue and relief works in Khammam district which is amongst the worst-hit due to the furious Godavari.

Water level has risen above the danger mark in the temple town of Bhadrachalam.

A high alert warning has been issued in the areas of abutting Godavari river. At least eight people have been confirmed dead due to rains.

The Indian Metrological Department has forecast heavy rains for the next 48 hours. Special teams have been deployed for relief measures.

Five Indian Air Force helicopters have been kept ready to air drop food, water and medicines in the villages. Seven relief camps have been opened in Nizamabad town and about 2,000 persons were accommodated in them.

Senior officers have been deployed to oversee relief measures in various parts of the affected districts.

The State received 281 mm of rainfall on June 1and July 17against the normal 217 mm — a 30 per cent rise. About 161 mandals in 9 districts recorded more than 50 mm rain.

Karimnagar, Warangal and Nizamabad received heavy rainfall. Wazeedu mandal in Khammam district received 460 mm rain, according to a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office.

>rishikumar.vundi@thehindu.co.in

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