Farmers faced major losses as thunderstorms destroyed paddy over 500 acres and jowar in more than 100 acres
Kurnool: Several areas in Nandyal district were severely affected by gale winds and lightning on Wednesday, causing major damage to agriculture and horticulture crops. Farmers faced major losses as thunderstorms destroyed paddy over 500 acres and jowar in more than 100 acres.
The severe weather also led to widespread power outages. A technical fault at the electrical substation in Sunnipenta resulted in a blackout in several regions, including Srisailam town and surrounding areas, from 2 pm to 11 pm. Despite continuous efforts by the officials, power could not be restored immediately. Fallen trees and damaged transformers further complicated the situation. The damage to electric cables was extensive, requiring full replacement to resume supply.
Minister of roads and buildings B.C. Janardhan Reddy has assured support to those impacted by the unseasonal rains and strong winds. He held a review over phone with officials regarding property damage and crop losses and instructed the agriculture department to immediately assess the extent of damage to both agriculture and horticulture crops.
The minister also directed the electricity wing to restore power supply on priority basis, as downed power lines disrupted supply across the constituency. He noted that the uprooting of large trees and fallen electric poles was causing heavy traffic disruptions. He instructed Roads and Buildings department officials to clear the roads immediately and ensure smooth flow of public transport.
The minister has also ordered field officers to provide immediate assistance to people stranded in low-lying and vulnerable areas.
District collector G. Rajakumari has directed officials to carry out an enumeration of the losses caused by the thunderstorm and take necessary steps for restoration and support to affected farmers.
