Intense floods in Andhra Pradesh & Telangana kills 19; 140 trains cancelled

At least 19 people have lost their lives, and over 17,000 have been evacuated as relentless rain continues to batter Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, leading to widespread flooding. The severe downpour, driven by a low-pressure system, has disrupted daily life, causing road closures and leaving thousands stranded.

The South Central Railway (SCR) has cancelled 140 trains and diverted 97, stranding nearly 6,000 passengers. In Telangana, floodwaters have washed away the gravel under railway tracks, further complicating the situation. The floods have severed connections between several areas, as roads and bridges have been destroyed or submerged.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah have assured the Chief Ministers of both states of full support from the central government. Rescue operations are in full swing, with 26 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams deployed to assist in flood relief efforts. In Vijayawada, one of the worst-hit areas, over 2.76 lakh people are affected, with power boats being deployed to distribute food and relief materials.

Hyderabad has also experienced heavy rains, leading to widespread waterlogging. With more rain forecasted, schools in Hyderabad have been closed for September 2. As rescue operations continue, efforts are being coordinated with NGOs and religious institutions to provide food and water to those affected.