The Godavari River at Bhadrachalam has been rising steadily, reaching a height of 35.4 feet by 7 PM on Saturday. This increase has caused flooding in the Seethamma Narachirala area, leading to a halt in visits. Authorities are preparing for possible danger if the water level continues to rise.
Heavy rains in Chhattisgarh and Kothagudem district are contributing to the floodwaters entering the river. Officials have released water from the Taliperu Project downstream to manage the flow. At 6 PM, six gates of the project in Cherla Mandal were opened, releasing 24,358 cusecs of excess water. The inflow at the project was 23,202 cusecs. Authorities predict that the Godavari may soon approach the first warning level. Superintendent of Police B Rohith Raju has warned fishermen and residents near the Godavari, Kinnersani, and other rivers to stay out of the water.
District Collector Jitesh V Patil is closely monitoring the situation with his team and has instructed them to remain on site unless otherwise informed. Control rooms have been established in RDO offices to keep track of developments. He urged the public to stay calm and be prepared for any situation.
Irrigation officials estimate that the floodwaters might reach 40 feet at Bhadrachalam soon. They noted that the first warning is issued at 43 feet, the second at 48 feet, and the final warning at 53 feet.
