Godavari crosses second warning level at Bhadrachalam; 46 labourers stranded on sand ramp rescued

Godavari river at Bhadrachalam crossed the second flood warning level at 48 feet, prompting officials to remain on high alert. District authorities, supported by NDRF and SDRF teams, are monitoring low-lying areas and preparing relief centres.

Kothagudem: Second warning has been issued at Bhadrachalam in the district as Godavari water level reached 48 feet with a discharge of 11.44 lakh cusecs on Friday afternoon.

District Collector Ankit, SP B Rohith Raju and Bhadrachalam Sub-Collector Mrunal Shreshta inspected the flood situation. Speaking on the occasion, the district Collector stated that the flood flow in Godavari has been rising rapidly due to heavy rains in the upstream areas.

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The third warning would be issued if the water level reaches 53 feet. The officials were told to continuously monitor the situation in low-lying areas and alert the public in advance. All arrangements were in place to shift people to relief centres without delay, should the need arise.

The district administration was fully alert, with NDRF, SDRF, and DRF teams kept on standby. The flood control room at Bhadrachalam was being operated round-the-clock to provide necessary assistance to the public, Ankit said.

He advised people to communicate information during emergencies through the flood control room phone number 08744-241950 or WhatsApp number 9392919743.

SP Rohith Raju advised the public to remain vigilant and warned against entering the river under any circumstances and cautioned them not to risk their lives by visiting dangerous areas for selfies or videos. The public should contact the flood control room or dial 100 to seek police assistance during emergencies.

Meanwhile, Godavari floodwaters surrounded Veerapuram sand ramp in Cherla mandal trapping both the ramp staff; sand-laden trucks and earth movers. The local tahsildar Mogili Srinivasa Rao and CI Raju Varma rushed to the spot with their team and rescued 46 people stranded in the floodwaters.

While CI was crossing a branch of the Godavari on a raft to rescue those trapped by the rising waters, the strong current caused the raft to overturn. Although the raft was swept some distance away, the CI held onto it and managed to reach the shore safely.