Telangana on High Alert: CM Reddy Mobilizes State Against Deepening El Niño Crisis

Telangana's Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has ordered officials to draft a strong action plan right away to fight the growing crisis caused by El Niño in the state. The CM held an urgent meeting on Saturday, October 10, warning that the next eight months are extremely important for ensuring drinking water, proper irrigation, healthy agriculture, and enough electricity for everyone. The state is already facing drought-like conditions in about 215-235 areas (mandals) because of much less rainfall during the recent Southwest Monsoon, creating worries about water scarcity and power shortages across 18 districts. The current El Niño event, now called a 'Super El Niño' by the World Meteorological Organization, is expected to get even stronger and last until February 2027, with its peak likely between October and December this year. This global weather pattern has already caused India's 2026 Southwest Monsoon to end with a 13% rainfall shortage, making it one of the driest years since 2001. In response, Telangana has asked the central government for a special package of Rs 20,000 crore and 50 extra days of work under MGNREGA to help farmers and rural families deal with the severe dry spell. Looking ahead, CM Reddy has directed officials to start public awareness campaigns about water and power saving and to set up a 'War Room' with a helpline to keep track of water and electricity levels. Farmers are being advised to plant crops that need less water, like pulses and oilseeds, instead of paddy for the upcoming Rabi season. A special meeting with state ministers is planned for October 12 to make key decisions. The Chief Minister will also hold a video conference with farmers at 'Rythu Vedikas' to discuss farming plans and how to deal with the El Niño effects.