Andhra Pradesh CM Naidu Wades Through Flood-Hit Vijayawada, Offers Food and Reassurance to Residents
News Article:
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, often referred to as the state's "CEO," has taken on the role of a hands-on rescuer in flood-hit Vijayawada. The city, along with other areas in the NTR district, has been battered by unusual and heavy rains, leading to severe flooding.
Key Highlights:
CM Naidu’s On-Ground Involvement: Since Sunday, 74-year-old CM Naidu has been seen wading through knee-deep water, navigating the streets of Vijayawada in rubber boats and atop earthmovers. His presence has been a source of reassurance for the flood-affected residents, as he personally delivers food packets and offers safety assurances, even late into the night.
Real-Time Crisis Management: In addition to his on-ground efforts, Naidu has been closely monitoring the flood situation in Vijayawada, Amaravati, and surrounding areas. He is camping outside the district administrative building in Vijayawada, holding continuous, real-time reviews with senior bureaucrats to manage the crisis effectively. His caravan is parked nearby, where he takes brief rests between his efforts.
Throwback to Hudhud Relief Operations: Naidu’s current actions are reminiscent of his leadership during the aftermath of Cyclone Hudhud in 2014. Back then, Naidu spearheaded days-long relief operations from his caravan parked outside the Visakhapatnam collectorate. His proactive approach and presence on the ground were credited with helping the city recover swiftly from the devastating cyclone.
Former Vizag Collector Recalls Naidu's Impact: N. Yuvaraj, the then Visakhapatnam district collector, recalled how Naidu’s leadership during Hudhud made a significant difference. "The CM’s presence on the ground, moving around the city instead of monitoring from the secretariat, made all the difference," Yuvaraj said. Under Naidu's supervision, power restoration and other critical recovery efforts began immediately, with assistance from neighboring states.
Coordination with Neighboring States: During the Hudhud disaster, Naidu coordinated with neighboring states like Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Odisha to secure essential supplies and personnel. This included transporting 35,000 electricity poles from Tamil Nadu and lorries of potatoes from West Bengal, as well as receiving disaster response teams from Odisha.
Naidu’s Expertise in Disaster Management: Now, as floods ravage Vijayawada, Naidu is once again in his element, directing officials and ensuring swift action to provide relief to those affected by the disaster. His proactive involvement underscores his commitment to hands-on governance and disaster management.
Chandrababu Naidu's dedication to crisis management continues to set a standard, as he navigates yet another natural disaster, bringing hope and relief to the people of Vijayawada.