As Telangana grapples with a severe flood crisis, the state’s response under the leadership of CM Revanth Reddy is raising serious concerns. Despite heavy to very heavy rainfall causing floods across multiple districts, including Khammam, Bhadradri Kothgudem, Mahboobnagar, Suryapet, Warangal, and Mahabubabad, the state government has yet to take the necessary steps to secure vital disaster relief funds from the union government.
According to a letter from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) addressed to the Telangana government, the state has failed to submit a formal situation report on the ongoing natural disaster, as per established procedure. This lapse has left the central authorities in the dark regarding the full extent of the damage and the immediate needs of the affected populations.
The letter highlights that while the Central Government has already deployed seven National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams and two Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopters for rescue and relief operations, the Telangana government’s inaction is hindering the release of the Central share of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for the current financial year. The first installment of Rs. 208.40 crore, which has been due since June 1, 2024, remains unpaid due to the state’s failure to provide essential documentation, including utilization certificates and statements of expenditure.
Adding to the concern, the letter points out that despite having Rs. 1345.15 crore available in the State SDRF account as of April 1, 2024, the state government has not made any formal request for the release of additional funds. The MHA has urged the Telangana government to urgently submit the required documents to facilitate the release of these critical funds and ensure continued disaster management efforts.
This negligence has raised alarms about the preparedness and efficiency of the Revanth Reddy administration in responding to natural disasters. With lives and livelihoods at stake, the delay in action by the state government could have far-reaching consequences for the people of Telangana.