Cyclonic storm in Andhra Pradesh claim over 50 lives; Church relief agencies to the rescue

New Delhi – In the wake of the destruction of life and property left behind by the cyclonic storm in Andhra Pradesh, Christian rescue workers have intensified their relief efforts and hope to bring back life to normalcy in the submerged areas of coastal Andhra Pradesh and parts of Telangana.

The storm that lashed towns and villages continuously for over two days, has claimed over 50 lives.

EFICOR, CASA, Caritas India and the local unit of the Salvation Army have swung into action, distributing relief and humanitarian aid to the victims.

According to the latest reports, the death toll was highest in the district of Warangal, followed by West Godavari, Guntur and East Godavari.

The state government has directed the evacuation of people living in Warangal, Godhavari river basin and Khamman, to safer places.

Several train and flight services had to be cancelled on account of the torrential rain.

Rainwater has reportedly submerged low–lying areas of towns such as Rajahmundry, Kakinada, Warangal, Nalgonda, Burgampahad and Vara Ramachandrapuram.

Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy, has announced an ex gratia of Rs. 1 lakh each to the victims' families.