Andhra Pradesh CM Naidu directs all state officials to be prepared for cyclone Roanu

VIJAYWADA: With heavy rains lashing different parts of Andhra Pradesh under the influence of cyclonic storm Roanu, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu today directed officials to take all steps to ensure that normal life is not affected.

While SPS Nellore, Prakasam and Guntur districts witnessed heavy rainfall yesterday, Krishna, East Godavari and Visakhapatnam have been receiving heavy rains today.

"Open relief camps wherever required. Evacuate people living in vulnerable areas to safety. Keep adequate stocks of food and other essential items ready to meet any eventuality," he told Chief Secretary Satya Prakash Tucker and Collectors of various districts during a teleconference with top officials to review the situation.

"Post special officers in each mandal to oversee relief operations. National Disaster Response Force, State Disaster Response and fire service personnel should focus on rescue operations wherever required," Naidu said.

"Closely observe the movement of Roanu and assess its impact. Plan your operations accordingly. Clear all uprooted trees and electric poles to ensure free flow of traffic and uninterrupted power supply," the Chief Minister said.