Amaravati, May 5: Unseasonal rains over the past two days have wreaked havoc on standing crops across Andhra Pradesh, damaging paddy and maize cultivated in more than 2,200 hectares. Officials briefed Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Monday, reporting significant crop losses in West Godavari, Nandyal, Kakinada, and Satya Sai districts.

West Godavari district bore the brunt, with over 1,033 hectares of paddy fields submerged. Nandyal reported crop damage over 641 hectares, Kakinada 530 hectares, and Satya Sai district 20 hectares. Officials also presented a preliminary assessment of damage to horticulture crops.

The Chief Minister held a review meeting with officials from the Agriculture and Disaster Management departments at the State Secretariat to discuss the impact of the incessant rains.

CM Naidu directed officials to complete ex-gratia disbursement to affected farmers by Tuesday evening, emphasizing that no farmer suffering losses should be left out. He also instructed officials to pay compensation to the families of eight people who lost their lives due to lightning.

With weather forecasts predicting more rainfall in the coming days, the Chief Minister instructed District Collectors and officials to remain on high alert and ensure all necessary precautions are taken to prevent loss of life.

Special Secretary for Civil Supplies, Saurabh Gaur, informed the Chief Minister that the government has set a target of procuring 20 lakh metric tonnes of paddy during the Rabi season, with 13 lakh metric tonnes already procured. He added that steps would be taken to purchase rain-affected grain as well.

CM Naidu reiterated that under no circumstances should grain from farmers be left unpurchased, even if it means seeking support from the central government for surplus procurement.