Godavari in Spate: Third Flood Warning Continues at Bhadrachalam
The Godavari river remained in spate at Bhadrachalam on Saturday, with the third flood warning continuing to be in force. At noon, the river was flowing at 56 feet, nearly three feet above the third warning level of 53 feet. The river had crossed the warning mark at 12.15 a.m., following heavy inflows from the upstream region.
The authorities in Bhadradri Kothagudem district have intensified surveillance in low-lying and riverside areas. Officials from the Revenue, Police, Irrigation, and other departments have been stationed in Bhadrachalam and are monitoring the situation round-the-clock. They have been instructed to be ready for relief and rescue operations should the need arise.
Traffic on the Bhadrachalam-Charla main road has been disrupted after a stream overflowed onto the road at Turubaka. In a precautionary move, residents of Sunnambatti and adjoining riverside habitations in Dummugudem mandal have been shifted to a temporary relief camp. The district administration has arranged food, drinking water, and essential supplies at the camp.
Flood warnings for the Godavari are issued in three stages. The first warning indicates a rise in water level that may affect normal life, the second warns of possible flooding in low-lying areas, and the third, the highest, signifies a serious threat to habitations along the river. The current alert has prompted the administration to take proactive measures.
Bhadrachalam, a prominent temple town on the banks of the Godavari, is particularly vulnerable during the monsoon season. The river frequently crosses danger levels due to heavy rainfall in the catchment areas. Officials have appealed to residents in vulnerable zones to stay alert and follow instructions from authorities, including evacuation orders.
The district administration is reviewing the flood situation periodically. Further updates on the river level and any additional measures will be issued as information becomes available.
