Nellore, Ongole civic bodies step up relief measures amid heavy rains

Amid heavy rains and severe flooding, the Nellore and Ongole municipal bodies took up immediate relief measures to resolve the issues of the people in the cities. The municipal commissioners inspected the flood-affected areas on Thursday morning.

Ongole Municipal Corporation (OMC) formed a quick response team with 25 members to solve the issues as a part of cyclone relief measures. Nellore Municipal Corporation also deployed sanitation staff to clear the rain-related relief activities.

Speaking to The Hindu, OMC Commissioner K. Venkateswara Rao said, “Until the effects of the cyclone subside, the quick response team will work round-the-clock to clear the fallen trees or drainage issues anywhere in the city limits.”

He informed that the team had the necessary equipment and tools to solve the problems of the public. Two JCB machines and four power saws were made available for them. For assistance from the team, people can contact the helpline number 08592227766.

The Commissioner asked the people to be prepared for heavy rains. He advised them to immediately evacuate places such as old houses and collapsing structures that can cause loss of life. He also suggested people inside houses not go out unless it is an emergency.

In the wake of heavy rains across Prakasam district, Superintendent of Police (SP) Harshavardhan Raju alerted the police officials to identify flooded streams, rivers and low-lying areas with drone cameras and coordinate with Revenue, Health and other departments.

Using drone cameras, the police identified overflowing floodwater through low-lying areas, streams and ponds in 18 places including Ongole, Santanutalapadu, Maddipadu, N.G. Padu, Tanguturu, Mundlamuru, Pamuru, Markapuram Town, Cumbum, Giddaluru and Racharla.

In addition, police patrols have been arranged at another 18 locations. The police personnel reportedly erected barbed wire fences in the areas where water levels exceeded the danger level to prevent mishaps.

Nellore Municipal Corporation (NMC) Commissioner Y.O. Nandan monitored the flow of floodwater in GNT Road and Wahabpet. He instructed the sanitation staff to completely remove the encroachments, debris and other waste from the roads and keep them clean. Mr. Nandan directed them to take all necessary measures to prevent stagnation of rainwater on the main roads and drains due to heavy rains. He ordered the demolition of ramps and other structures that block floodwaters.

The Commissioner ordered the officials of the Sanitation department to impose a fine of ₹10,000 on Swami Milk Dairy shop, which was built by completely encroaching the drains. He warned the people not to take up any construction encroaching the drains.