Sat May 31 10:18:54 UTC 2025: ## Summary of Text
The provided text is an article from The Hindu, dated May 31, 2025, reporting on Andhra Pradesh Minister for Municipal Administration and Urban Development P. Narayana’s response to heavy rains. He held a teleconference with officials, directing them to take immediate mitigation measures in municipalities, prevent public inconvenience, and safeguard residents in low-lying areas. He instructed Principal Secretary Suresh Kumar to issue emergency directives for immediate desilting of stormwater drains, even without pending council approvals, due to public safety concerns. He also emphasized precautionary measures near open drains and instructed commissioners of Vijayawada, Guntur, and Mangalagiri-Tadepalli municipal corporations to prevent water accumulation in vulnerable areas.
## News Article
**Andhra Pradesh Minister Orders Swift Action as Heavy Rains Lash the State**
**Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh – May 31, 2025** – Following days of heavy rainfall across Andhra Pradesh, Minister for Municipal Administration and Urban Development P. Narayana has ordered urgent action to mitigate the impact of the storms. During a teleconference held Saturday with senior officials, Minister Narayana stressed the need for immediate measures to prevent public inconvenience and ensure the safety of residents, particularly in low-lying urban areas.
The Minister instructed officials to prioritize preventing water stagnation on roads and to maintain a state of high alert. A key point of contention arose regarding incomplete desilting of stormwater drains in some municipalities due to pending council resolutions. In response, Minister Narayana directed Principal Secretary Suresh Kumar to issue emergency directives allowing municipal commissioners to proceed with desilting immediately, bypassing standard council approvals in the interest of public safety.
“The safety of our citizens is paramount,” stated Minister Narayana. “We cannot afford to delay critical infrastructure work due to bureaucratic processes.”
Furthermore, the Minister emphasized the need for precautionary measures around open drains to prevent accidents and urged authorities to alert residents to potential hazards. He had previously spoken with commissioners of Vijayawada, Guntur, and Mangalagiri-Tadepalli municipal corporations on Friday, urging them to take proactive steps to prevent water accumulation and disruption to public life.
Minister Narayana has instructed all municipalities across the state to remain vigilant and implement proactive measures to address any rain-related issues. The situation remains under close monitoring as the region braces for continued rainfall.