El Niño Impact: CM Asks TD Leaders to Safeguard Farmers, Water Resources
He was addressing the Telugu Desam leadership conclave at the party headquarters on Tuesday.
Vijayawada:Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has urged public representatives to work collectively to mitigate the adverse impact of El Niño on Andhra Pradesh, stressing that drinking water, livestock needs and crop protection must remain the top priorities until normal conditions return.
He was addressing the Telugu Desam leadership conclave at the party headquarters on Tuesday.
On the local body elections, Naidu asked party leaders to ensure victory across all seats, select the best candidates, and maintain party discipline. He confirmed that mayors and chairpersons would be elected directly, with committees monitoring the process.
Naidu cautioned leaders against factionalism and warned of suspension if they damaged party interests. “Work with unity and spirit to secure success in local polls,” he told the party cadre.
Ministers K Atchannaidu and V Anita highlighted the El Nino challenge, with the CM outlining the grim situation: rainfall deficit has already touched 54 per cent, reservoir storage has dropped from 737tmc last year to 530tmc this season, and groundwater levels are falling sharply.
Naidu pointed out that sowing has exceeded permissible limits in several districts — Nellore at 177 per cent, Tirupati at 158 per cent, Konaseema at 103 per cent, and West Godavari at 99 per cent. In contrast, sowing remained far below target in Markapur (21 per cent), Polavaram (20 per cent), and Prakasam (12 per cent).
He noted that while the Godavari water transfer saved Krishna delta crops, nearly seven lakh acres remained unsown. Through Pattiseema, 36tmc was diverted to Prakasam barrage, another 71tmc is still required this season.
The chief minister said, “The government is prioritising drinking water supply, protecting livestock and ensuring industries face no shortage. The large-scale crop insurance scheme has been implemented, awareness campaigns are reaching farmers directly, and 2.70 crore land parcels are being monitored for timely advisories. Yet, 14,900 acres have already dried up, with Kurnool and Nandyal reporting complete crop loss.
Naidu reiterated the need for crop diversification, PMDS (Permanent Micro Drip System) adoption, and seed pelting for horticulture crops. He announced plans to complete 36 irrigation projects in three years at a cost of `35,000 crore, and urged farmers to adopt PMDS across 25 lakh acres with government support of `1,000 per acre for seed supply.
Rayalaseema districts may face severe distress, he said, but “the government would stand by farmers.” Monthly economic reports are being released to track progress. He said the previous government neglected irrigation and engaged in false propaganda,” citing damage to the Polavaram diaphragm wall under the YSRC tenure.
Calling for political accountability, Naidu directed MLAs, MPs, and ministers to counter misinformation at the grassroots, instill confidence among the people, and focus on water conservation. “We have invested heavily in irrigation projects. While our opponents play dramas, expose their falsehoods, we implement large-scale irrigation projects,” he asserted.
