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Water Resources Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu has directed officials of the Water Resources Department across cyclone-affected districts to remain on high alert and conduct round-the-clock field inspections—from the Chief Engineer level down to local laskar-level staff. Holding a video conference from the Secretariat in Amaravati on Monday, the Minister reviewed the department’s preparedness in view of Cyclone Montha. Mr. Ramanaidu instructed all officials to stay at their respective headquarters, cancel any pending leave, and report for duty immediately. Any breaches or damages to tanks, canals, or bunds should be repaired without delay, he said. Officials were told to keep essential equipment such as sandbags, pumps, and boats ready, and to ensure that gates and sluices remain in proper working condition through regular inspections. He further directed that residents of low-lying and downstream areas of canals and reservoirs be alerted in advance before any release of water due to the cyclone’s impact. “Every precaution must be taken to prevent loss of life, damage to property, and harm to crops,” he emphasised. Citing heavy rainfall forecasts in NTR district, the Minister ordered continuous monitoring of the Budameru Diversion Channel and instructed officials to ensure that the Old Budameru stretch—from Velagaleru regulator to Enikepadu UT within Vijayawada city—remains free from obstructions to water flow. He also called for strict vigilance over Errakalva, Yanamadurru Drain, Burada Kalva, Sudda Vagu, Eleru Reservoir, and Raivada Canal, and urged coordination with the District Collector and departments of Revenue, Disaster Management, Police, Electricity, Municipal Administration, and Rural Water Supply. Mr. Ramanaidu reiterated that vigilance and swift response by irrigation officials are crucial to mitigating the impact of Cyclone Montha and safeguarding lives, crops, and infrastructure in vulnerable regions. Special Commissioner for CAD Prashanthi, Irrigation Advisor Venkateswara Rao, ENC Narasimha Murthy, Chief Engineers, Superintending Engineers, Executive Engineers, and other senior officers attended the meeting.
