Collectors told to prioritise drinking water supply amid El Nino concerns

Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary G. Sai Prasad has directed the District Collectors to take advance measures to tackle El Nino-induced drought conditions, ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply, and protect agricultural crops, warning of stringent action against those diverting or stealing drinking water.

Reviewing the situation at the Secretariat on Friday, Mr. Prasad instructed the Collectors to accord priority to the drinking water requirements in the urban and rural areas over the next six months. “Water meant for public consumption should not be diverted to non-drinking purposes, including fish and shrimp ponds,” he said, directing the immediate arrest of those involved in drinking water theft.

The State had recorded 38.9% rainfall deficit as of October 8 and declared 388 mandals across 21 districts as drought-affected. The Chief Secretary directed the officials to complete crop damage assessments by October 17 and ensure timely government assistance to the farmers.