Heavy flood threat in Godavari, Krishna rivers: Disaster Management Authority issues alert

The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) has issued a flood alert as heavy rains in upstream States are causing a surge in the Godavari and Krishna rivers.

APSDMA Managing Director Prakhar Jain said that by 8 p.m. on Wednesday, water level at Bhadrachalam in Godavari River reached 47.4 feet. At Dowleswaram barrage, the inflow and outflow stood at 8.28 lakh cusec, raising the possibility of issuing the first flood warning within the next 24 hours.

Officials in Alluri Sitarama Raju, East Godavari, Ambedkar Konaseema, Kakinada, Eluru and West Godavari districts have been put on high alert. Mr. Jain said the authority is continuously monitoring the flood situation and issuing necessary advisories to district administrations.

Meanwhile, the Krishna river at Prakasam Barrage recorded 4.67 lakh cusec inflow and outflow, with the first warning level continuing. SDRF teams have been deployed in vulnerable districts to assist with emergency operations.

Authorities have appealed to those living in low-lying and riverbank villages to remain vigilant, as water is being released downstream from various reservoirs on both Godavari and Krishna rivers.

The public has been strictly advised not to venture into rivers, travel in boats, motorboats, or steamers or engage in activities such as swimming, bathing or fishing in floodwaters. People have also been warned against attempting to cross flooded streams, canals or culverts, as sudden gushes of water could prove dangerous.

The Disaster Management Authority reiterated that safety precautions and public cooperation are essential to minimise risks during this period of heightened flood threat.