CBN: Montha Affect Cost Us Rs 5265 Crores

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has estimated the total financial loss caused by cyclone Montha at Rs 5265 crore. He revealed that agriculture suffered damages worth Rs 829 crore, while the Roads and Buildings (R&B) department reported losses of Rs 2079 crore.

Chandrababu said no human lives were lost in the cyclone, though 120 cattle died. The loss to the irrigation department was comparatively lower this time. The CM held a review meeting to assess the impact and discussed the precautionary measures taken by the government.

Speaking to the media after the review, Chandrababu said the administration’s preparedness and real-time tracking helped minimise losses. He credited the use of technology for improving the speed and coordination of relief work across affected districts.

Chandrababu noted that geo-tagging every family and house helped in quick response and decision-making. “We took decisions based on changes in the cyclone’s intensity,” he said. “Earlier, electricity would take 10 hours to be restored. This time, we did it in just 3 hours.”

The Chief Minister praised officers for their efficient handling of the situation. “Fallen trees were cleared immediately. In the past, this would take a week. We can’t stop natural disasters, but by working together, we can reduce their damage,” he said.

With experience handling cyclones like Hud Hud and Titli, Chandrababu reiterated that technology and coordination play a crucial role in managing environmental challenges effectively.