Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has instructed state officials to formulate a comprehensive action plan in response to the challenges posed by emerging El Niño conditions. Emphasising the urgent need for precautionary steps, Reddy highlighted key areas such as drinking water, irrigation, agriculture, and electricity supply that could be severely affected. This directive followed a review meeting held at his residence in Jubilee Hills on Saturday, where officials discussed potential strategies to mitigate the impending crisis.

During the meeting, Reddy warned that failing to account for the far-reaching effects of El Niño could result in significant challenges for the state. He stressed the importance of being proactive and taking all necessary measures to avert complications in the months ahead. Moreover, there was a focus on public awareness efforts about El Niño’s impact, with plans to launch a communication campaign employing various media channels for widespread outreach.

Future Preparedness and Public Engagement

Reddy noted the critical importance of the next eight months in managing the potential fallout from El Niño. He underlined the necessity of involving the public as active participants in executing the action plan. Furthermore, he cautioned that electrical power shortages may become more prevalent in the near future. Although the government is prepared to allocate funds for electricity procurement, he pointed out the limited availability of power in the market.

Officials are expected to facilitate the judicious use of available electricity. Additionally, measures should be implemented to delay energy-intensive activities whenever feasible. To address potential water shortages, the Chief Minister mandated that officials evaluate standing crops and ensure water availability until the harvest is completed. He insisted on implementing special measures to avert exacerbating the situation, urging that no water should go to waste.

Strategic Discussions and Financial Assistance Measures

Revanth Reddy indicated that a special meeting with ministers will transpire soon to deliberate on El Niño’s potential effects and the current rainfall deficit experienced in Telangana. This meeting aims to solidify key policy decisions based on discussions regarding areas experiencing insufficient rainfall, the obstacles faced by farmers, and the immediate steps the government must undertake.

In the midst of drought-like conditions affecting approximately 215 mandals in the state, the Telangana government has already sought assistance from the Centre. A resolution for the declaration of these areas as drought affected has been passed in the Assembly, along with a request for a financial support package of Rs 20,000 crore. The Chief Minister also directed officials to appeal for an additional 50 days of employment under the employment guarantee scheme, supplementing the standard 125 days.

After consultations with ministers, a decision on forming an all-party committee, if deemed necessary, will also be considered. This strategic approach aims to consolidate resources and ensure a focused response to the evolving situation.

Awareness Initiatives and Real-Time Response Plans

The Chief Minister instructed officials to roll out awareness initiatives at various levels — village, mandal, district, and state — following the Dussehra festival. There are suggestions to establish a ‘war room’ to monitor ongoing conditions closely and to set up a toll-free helpline for public assistance. This real-time monitoring will aid in quick decision-making and response to emergencies as they arise.

In addition, senior officials from the Chief Minister’s Office have been tasked with maintaining continuous oversight of electricity supply arrangements. Key figures attending the initial meeting included Government Advisor Ramakrishna Rao, MP Vem Narendar Reddy, Chief Secretary Sanjay Jaju, and DGP CV Anand. Their collective expertise will be crucial in navigating the challenges ahead for Telangana amid this pressing climate phenomenon.

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