Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has directed officials to ensure uninterrupted 24×7 power supply to protect standing crops, as the state faces deficient rainfall and preparations for the impact of El Niño. He warned that the next 20 days would be critical for agriculture and said farmers must not suffer crop losses because of electricity shortages.
The directive was issued during a review meeting with senior officials on rainfall conditions, electricity supply, drinking water availability and the state’s preparedness for the coming months. Reddy expressed displeasure over recurring power interruptions in several areas and warned that senior officials could face suspension if they failed to implement the instructions.
The chief minister said he would hold officials accountable for failures in the power system and specifically named the special chief secretary of the energy department, the chairman and managing director of GENCO, and other concerned IAS officers. He also criticised what he described as repeated explanations for interruptions and sought action to prevent shortages in the days ahead.
Reddy questioned why electricity generation had not been increased despite the possibility of rising demand and supply constraints. He also sought an explanation for the Yadadri Thermal Power Plant not operating at full capacity, even after coal supply linkages had been established with the Naini and Mahanadi coal fields.
The chief minister directed all departments to prepare a comprehensive action plan extending until next June to address the consequences of deficient rainfall. The plan is expected to cover electricity, drinking water, rainfall monitoring and the availability of fodder for cattle.
In Greater Hyderabad, officials were instructed to examine the use of treated water from sewage treatment plants for construction activities. The measure would reduce reliance on potable water for construction if it is found operationally suitable, although the report did not specify the plants, volumes or implementation timeline.
The government will also appoint Group-1 and Group-2 officers to monitor rainfall deficits, power supply, drinking water availability and cattle fodder requirements at the grassroots level. Reddy directed officials to organise gram sabhas between Dasara and Diwali to explain the consequences of deficient rainfall and the measures required in the coming months.
Cultural troupes known as Kala Jathas will be used to spread public awareness about El Niño, water conservation, electricity conservation and preparedness measures. The chief minister was scheduled to hold an informal cabinet meeting on the impact of El Niño at the Secretariat at 4 pm on Thursday, where the state’s response was expected to be discussed further.
