Vijayawada: The water level in the Godavari River is rising at an alarming rate, prompting the water resources authorities to issue an initial warning. As of 7:00 pm Tuesday, the water level at the Sir Arthur Cotton Barrage in Dowleswaram had reached 11.75 feet, with a discharge of 10.01 lakh cusecs. By 10:00 pm, the level had risen to 12.60 feet, with a discharge of 10.97 lakh cusecs.
Authorities anticipate further increases in water levels and are preparing to issue a second warning if the level reaches 13.75 feet, with a discharge nearing 13 lakh cusecs, expected in the early hours of Wednesday. The river is experiencing substantial inflows due to heavy rainfall in its catchment areas upstream, as well as contributions from the Sabari, Indravati, and Sileru streams.
In response, the water resources authorities have instructed all flood duty officers to be on high alert, focusing on the vulnerable flood banks along the river. Measures are being taken to prevent breaches and potential flooding of nearby habitations and fields, including the deployment of sandbags, bamboo sticks, and other materials to reinforce weak areas.
East Godavari collector P. Prasanthi has reviewed the situation with officials and has ordered the evacuation of residents from low-lying areas and islets to rehabilitation centers. Plans are in place to provide food, water, and health services to those affected. Additionally, fishing in the river has been temporarily banned to ensure safety.
