metro india news  I hyderabad

Telangana continues to experience widespread heavy rainfall, disrupting life in several districts and in GHMC limits. Continuous downpour today affected traffic and caused waterlogging in localities such as Miyapur, Gachibowli, Banjara Hills, Jubilee Hills, Ameerpet, Charminar, and Falaknuma. The Meteorological Department has forecast more heavy to very heavy rains over the next three days, prompting an all-out response from the state government, civic authorities, and political leaders.

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy called for immediate measures to ensure minimal disruption to public life. “Special attention must be given to low-lying and flood-prone areas. All control rooms must operate 24/7,” he said, directing coordinated action across Revenue, Irrigation, Power, Panchayat Raj, Roads, and Police departments, especially in Hanmakonda, Warangal, Jangaon, Mahabubabad, and Bhupalapally districts.

Health Minister Damodar Rajanarsimha placed the health department on high alert. “All hospitals must be fully staffed, with arrangements for pregnant women nearing delivery. 

Ambulances and generators should be ready at all times,” he instructed.

In Greater Hyderabad, GHMC Commissioner R.V. Karnan issued strict orders banning the opening of manholes. “Any manhole-related issues must be reported to the control room for immediate action. Our teams are on high alert, with senior officials stationed at headquarters,” he stated. 

The School Education Department declared holidays for two days in Warangal, Hanamkonda, Jangaon, Mahabubabad, and Yadadri Bhongir districts. In GHMC limits, Director of School Education Naveen Nicholas gave orders to schools to hold classes for only half day on August 13 and 14.

Khammam Police Commissioner Sunil Dutt urged citizens to avoid flooded roads, not to cross overflowing streams, and warned youth against taking selfies near fast-flowing water. “For emergencies, call Dial 100 or 8712659111,” he advised.

TPCC President Mahesh Kumar Goud, in a Zoom meeting with district in-charges, called upon Congress cadres to stand by flood-affected people. “Be accessible to the public and ensure the party’s presence is felt through proactive support,” he said. With the state bracing for more rain, authorities and leaders have urged citizens to remain vigilant and follow safety instructions.

Reddy, who gave a slew of instructions to the officials, instructed them to explore the possibility of IT firms in Hyderabad letting their employees work from home as part of measures to reduce footfalls on roads. He also ordered cancellation of leave of all officers and staff in view of the forecast of heavy rains for a few days beginning Wednesday.