Godavari Set to Cross First Flood Warning Level; AP on High Alert
Godavari river conservator G. Srinivas said, "We expect the water level at the barrage to reach the first warning level between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m. on Saturday.
Vijayawada:The water level in the Godavari river is rising steadily, with 5.36 lakh cusecs of water being discharged from the Sir Arthur Cotton Barrage at Dowleswaram into the sea as of 9 p.m. on Friday. Officials said the river is likely to reach the first flood warning level of 11.75 feet in the early hours of Saturday, with the discharge expected to increase to 10–11 lakh cusecs.
Godavari river conservator G. Srinivas said, "We expect the water level at the barrage to reach the first warning level between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m. on Saturday. Subsequently, it may rise to the second warning level of 13.75 feet, with a discharge of around 13 lakh cusecs.
"We have initiated all necessary measures to tackle the flood situation. Flood-control materials have been mobilised and kept ready for use at designated vulnerable locations along the river course to strengthen bunds wherever required, ensuring public safety and minimising crop losses," he added.
The Godavari waters released from the Sir Arthur Cotton Barrage drain into the sea through three outlets—Antarvedi, about 90 km downstream, Bodasakurru, around 28 km away, and Yanam, after travelling nearly 85 km. Water Resources Department officials are closely monitoring the river along its course to prevent any untoward incidents.
Meanwhile, the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) said it has alerted the district administrations of East Godavari, Dr B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema, Kakinada, West Godavari, Eluru and Polavaram districts as the Godavari continues to swell.
Three National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams and three State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams have been deployed and kept on standby at Amalapuram, Rajamahendravaram, Chintur, V.R. Puram and Jangareddygudem to respond to any emergency.
APSDMA Managing Director Prakhar Jain advised authorities in vulnerable districts to evacuate residents of low-lying and island villages to safer locations and accommodate them in rehabilitation centres.
The APSDMA also announced toll-free helpline numbers 112, 1070 and 1800-425-0101 for people requiring emergency assistance during the floods.
Residents have been urged to remain cautious near overflowing streams, culverts and causeways and to avoid entering the river for swimming or bathing. Fishermen have also been advised not to venture into the river until conditions improve.
