18 youths rescued from floodwaters of Penna River in Nellore

As many as 18 youngsters were trapped in floodwaters of Penna river near Bhagat Singh Colony in Nellore. According to the police, they went into the middle of the river at an island-like place to have some fun on Monday evening at around 5.30 p.m. They were trapped in the river when the floodwaters surrounded them suddenly by 7.30 p.m.

Based on information from local leaders, the RDO and Nawabpet (Two-Town) police immediately responded and initiated rescue operations. Minister Ponguru Narayana also inquired from the officials about the details of the incident. Under the supervision of SP Ajitha Vejendla, the officials of Police, Fire and Revenue departments launched a joint operation by 8 p.m.

Observing the police teams, the youths were initially scared and started running towards the river water. However, the police officials have asked them not to panic. The Irrigation department staff closed the flood gates to reduce the water flow. Nawabpet CI Venugopal Rao and his team climbed down from centre of the bridge into the river through rope ladder to help the youngsters.

By Tuesday early morning 3 a.m., all of them were rescued from the river.