Deep depression: Andhra Pradesh asks livestock rearers to move animals to higher ground

Andhra Pradesh Animal Husbandry Minister K. Atchannaidu on Wednesday urged people rearing livestock across the State to take precautionary measures to protect cattle, sheep, goats and other animals, as heavy rains continue under the influence of a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal.

A deep depression is a weather system that can bring sustained heavy rainfall and strong winds over a wide area. Because such systems can cause flooding and waterlogging in low-lying districts, the State has issued a set of advisories for those who depend on livestock for their livelihood. Livestock rearing is an important source of income for many rural households in Andhra Pradesh.

In a statement, the Minister asked rearers to follow the advisories issued by the weather department and the district administration, and to shift their animals to safe, elevated locations in advance rather than waiting for water to rise. He also advised them to keep adequate stocks of dry fodder on hand.

On feed and water, the department said wet, mouldy or fungus-affected feed should not be given to animals, since such feed can cause illness. Animals should be provided clean drinking water, and stagnant or contaminated water sources should be avoided.

Calves need particular care and should be kept in dry shelters. The department warned that animals should not be left in waterlogged or muddy areas for prolonged periods, as this can lead to foot infections. Where animals are already standing in water, they should be moved to drier ground as soon as possible.

During thunderstorms and lightning, livestock should be moved away from weak structures, trees and electricity poles. In flood-prone areas, animals should not be tethered, so that they are not trapped if water levels rise. They should instead be shifted to safer, elevated ground.

The department also set out what rearers should do if an animal dies. The nearest veterinary officer should be informed immediately. Carcasses should be disposed of scientifically, in line with veterinary guidelines, and must not be dumped in water bodies or in open areas, as this can spread disease and contaminate water sources.

Mr. Atchannaidu urged rearers to make use of government facilities available to them, including livestock insurance, subsidised feed and fodder, Gokulams, and free vaccination and deworming services. These services are intended to reduce the financial loss to households when animals fall ill or die during extreme weather.

Director of Animal Husbandry R. Amarendra Kumar appealed to rearers to prioritise their own safety during emergencies. He asked them to contact the nearest veterinary officer promptly if an animal falls ill or dies, rather than delaying treatment or reporting.

The advisories come as the deep depression over the Bay of Bengal continues to influence weather across the region. Officials have advised residents in affected districts to stay alert to district-level warnings, which are updated as the system moves. Rearers who have not yet moved their animals are being asked to do so before conditions worsen, and to keep a stock of dry fodder and clean water ready in case roads are cut off by flooding.