Godavari crosses 43-ft mark at Bhadrachalam; first flood warning issued
The Godavari river crossed the first flood warning level of 43 feet at Bhadrachalam in Bhadradri Kothagudem district of Telangana at 10.14 a.m. on Friday (July 31, 2026), following heavy inflows from upstream catchment areas. The district authorities issued the first flood warning as per the flood manual and immediately activated a round-the-clock flood control room at the Integrated District Offices Complex in Kothagudem.
The control room can be reached at 08744 241950, and the public can also send flood-related information through WhatsApp at 9392919743, officials said. People residing in riverside villages and low-lying areas along the banks of the Godavari have been alerted in view of the possibility of a further rise in the river level.
The rise in the water level has been attributed to the release of floodwaters from upstream projects. The Sripada Yellampalli Project in Peddapalli district is nearly full, with the water level reaching 147.41 metres against its full reservoir level (FRL) of 148 metres. As of 11.48 a.m. on Friday, the project was releasing about 1.08 lakh cusecs of floodwater downstream by lifting 15 of its 62 gates, while inflows stood at 1.31 lakh cusecs.
The first flood warning level at Bhadrachalam is set at 43 feet, followed by the second warning level at 53 feet and the third warning level at 60 feet. These benchmarks are used by the authorities to assess the severity of flooding and to mobilise response measures accordingly. The flood control room has been set up to coordinate relief and rescue operations, issue timely alerts, and assist residents in evacuating if needed.
Bhadrachalam, a town of religious and cultural significance with its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Rama, lies on the banks of the Godavari. The river, one of the largest in the Indian subcontinent, often witnesses rising water levels during the monsoon season, especially when heavy rainfall occurs in the catchment areas spanning Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and parts of Telangana. The Godavari's flow is closely monitored by the Central Water Commission and state authorities, who issue forecasts and warnings to minimise the impact of floods.
The district administration has urged people in vulnerable areas to stay alert and follow the instructions of the authorities. Officials have also asked residents not to venture into the river or its tributaries during this period. Communication channels have been established to ensure that information reaches every village along the riverbank.
As the monsoon progresses, the situation remains dynamic, and authorities are taking proactive steps to safeguard lives and property. The flood control room is functioning round the clock, and officials are in constant touch with the dam operators and the Central Water Commission to track the river's rise and adjust warnings accordingly.
