TNI Bureau: The Cyclone Nilam has left widespread destruction in Andhra Pradesh. Heavy rains continue to lash several areas in the state. At least 27 people have died so far. Over 68,000 people have been evacuated from low lying areas to relief camps.

At least 5 lakh hectares of crop have been damaged due to heavy rains in the last few days. The rains have also caused heavy damage in coastal Odisha. Ganjam and Gajapati are worst affected districts.

The Andhra Pradesh government may soon approach the centre for assistance to compensate the farmers and build shelters for homeless people. An assistance of Rs 1.50 lakh would be given to the kin of the deceased.