Tummala Nageswara Rao farmers rain alert: Minister urges caution, warns against early harvest

Hyderabad: State Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao on Wednesday urged farmers in Telangana not to rush into harvesting or selling their crops amid ongoing heavy rains caused by Cyclone Montha.

He appealed to farmers to delay paddy harvesting and protect their standing crops from possible damage. “Do not sell your produce in haste,” the minister warned, highlighting the risk of losses due to unstable weather conditions.

After the cyclone shifted course, Nageswara Rao spoke with the district collectors of Khammam and Bhadradri Kothagudem. He issued clear instructions to tackle the threat of floods and protect people in vulnerable areas.

Authorities have been told to alert residents in low-lying villages. Officials must also prevent the public from crossing swollen streams or rivulets. Police assistance should be used wherever needed to enforce these safety measures.

Given the likelihood of rising floodwaters, the minister asked the Irrigation Department to closely monitor tank bunds and water bodies.

He further advised residents to remain indoors unless absolutely necessary. Officials across the undivided Khammam district have been instructed to stay vigilant as heavy rains continue.