27 killed in Andhra, Telangana rains; over 100 trains canceled
At least 27 people have died due to heavy rainfall that has been lashing Andhra Pradesh and Telangana for two consecutive days. The incessant downpour has led to widespread flooding and waterlogging, disrupting road and rail traffic significantly. Rivers in both states are overflowing, prompting the evacuation of thousands by national and state disaster response forces. Over 17,000 people have been evacuated in Andhra Pradesh alone.
Widespread disruption
The Vijayawada district in Andhra Pradesh is among the worst affected, with approximately 2.76 lakh people impacted by the floods. The South Central Railway (SCR) network, serving both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, has been severely disrupted due to waterlogging on tracks at multiple locations. Over 100 trains have been canceled so far, leaving nearly 6,000 passengers stranded at various stations across the two states.
Central government assures assistance to flood-hit states
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and his Telangana counterpart A Revanth Reddy of all possible help from the Centre. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also spoke to both CMs, promising central assistance. In Telangana, 15 people have lost their lives in separate rain-related incidents, while Andhra Pradesh has reported 12 deaths and one missing case since Saturday.
Hyderabad declares school holiday amid heavy rains
In Hyderabad, persistent heavy rain has led to waterlogging in many parts of the city, prompting authorities to declare a holiday for schools on Monday. The Telangana government announced a holiday for all primary and secondary schools in Hyderabad due to the forecast of more heavy rains. Meanwhile, the weather department has issued a red alert for very heavy to extremely heavy rain in several districts of Telangana on Monday.
Emergency measures
Chief Minister Reddy held an emergency review meeting, instructing officials to remain vigilant and provide immediate relief in flood-affected areas. He also urged residents to only leave their homes if necessary. The India Meteorological Department has predicted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning in parts of Andhra Pradesh from September 2 to 5, with similar weather conditions expected in Telangana.
