28 people killed in heavy rains in AP: CM

Hyderabad, June 22 (UNI) Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy today said 28 people were killed in rain-related incidents as the deep depression which crossed the coast close to Kakinada, disrupted road, rail and air traffic and threw normal life out of gear in parts of the state today.

Speaking to mediapersons here, Dr Reddy said, 15 persons were killed in Nandyal, the most-affected area in Kurnool District.

The death toll may increase as the district administration swung into action to rescue those trapped in the swirling waters.

After reviewing the situation with top officials and ministers here, Dr Reddy announced Rs two lakh ex-gratia each to the victims' families.

He instructed the officials concerned to work on war-footing round the-clock to provide necessary relief to the affected people.

Two helicopters were kept ready for relief and rescue operations and would reach Kurnool as soon as the weather permitted.

Two lakh food packets were being distributed in Nandyal, Kurnool and other affected areas. Milk, bread and other food items were also dropped through helicopter, he said.

UNI