Andhra CM Naidu’s Hands-on Leadership Shines Amidst Vijayawada Flood Crisis

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is being lauded for his proactive leadership during the unprecedented floods that have engulfed Vijayawada. The city has experienced record-breaking rainfall since August 30, with 37 cm falling on Sunday alone, causing the Budameru rivulet to overflow and flood nearly 40% of the city. Additionally, heavy flood discharge from Telangana into the Krishna River has further worsened the situation, with 11.43 lakh cusecs of water being released on Monday, marking the highest discharge in 70 years at the Prakasam Barrage.

In response, Naidu has adopted a hands-on approach, staying in Vijayawada since August 31 to personally oversee relief efforts. He has transformed a caravan into a makeshift secretariat, held press conferences post-midnight, and even inspected affected areas by bulldozer and on foot, traversing knee-deep water. His relentless focus on rescue operations has drawn praise from both citizens and officials alike.

Naidu's meticulous planning became evident when he called an emergency meeting on August 29, immediately after the first warning of the impending floods. He instructed district officials and ward secretariats to prioritize rescue and relief measures, and he activated the entire TDP party apparatus, ensuring MPs, MLAs, and party workers were involved in relief operations.

The government has moved approximately 50,000 people to safety, set up 163 relief camps, and deployed 193 medical camps to prevent the outbreak of diseases. Naidu has also garnered support from restaurant and hotel associations to provide food for displaced residents.

Despite criticisms from the opposition, Naidu’s leadership has earned widespread praise. Many have contrasted his proactive role with the less visible efforts of the opposition, with Naidu’s son, IT Minister Lokesh Naidu, also actively coordinating relief efforts through social media. As the situation unfolds, Naidu’s swift and decisive actions have positioned him as a leader deeply committed to the welfare of the flood-affected people of Andhra Pradesh.