Hyderabad, July 31: Authorities issued the first danger warning at Bhadrachalam on Friday after the Godavari water level reached 43 feet at 10:14 am following heavy rainfall in the river’s upper catchment areas.
Heavy rains in Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, and North Telangana over the past three days have significantly increased inflows into the Godavari through its major tributaries, Indravati and Pranahita. Officials said the river is carrying nearly 10 lakh cusecs of inflow from the Indravati basin.
According to flood forecasts, the Godavari’s flow is expected to rise further to 12 to 17 lakh cusecs at Medigadda and Bhadrachalam over the next 24 to 36 hours.
The rising inflows are also expected to increase water levels at major irrigation projects, including Sri Ram Sagar Project (SRSP), Yellampally, Sundilla, Annaram, and Medigadda.
In view of the evolving flood situation, the Bhadrachalam Sub Collector directed all departments involved in flood management to remain on high alert and implement the Godavari Flood Manual without delay.
Authorities have established central and sub control rooms to monitor the flood situation continuously. Residents of riverside villages and low lying areas have been advised to remain vigilant and follow official instructions.
Meanwhile, devotees visiting the Godavari ghats expressed concern over the lack of visible safety measures. They pointed out the absence of warning boards, public announcements, and security personnel despite the rapidly rising river level.
Locals have urged the administration to install danger signboards, deploy security staff, and begin regular public announcements at the bathing ghats to prevent accidents as floodwaters continue to rise.
