Hans News Service Amaravati

StateDisaster Management Authority (APSDMA) has sounded an alert as flood levels in the Godavari River continue to rise following heavy rainfall in the upstream catchment areas. Officials warned that the river is likely to reach the first danger warning level by Friday night and the second danger warning level by Saturday.

APSDMA managing director Prakhar Jain said the administrative machinery in East Godavari, Konaseema, Kakinada, West Godavari, Eluru and the Polavaram region has been placed on high alert. A total of three NDRF and three SDRF teams have been stationed at Amalapuram, Rajamahendravaram, Chinturu, VR Puram and Jangareddygudem for emergency response.

As of 7 pm on Friday, the Godavari water level stood at 49.8 feet at Bhadrachalam, 16.35 metres at Kunavaram and 10.26 metres at Polavaram, while inflow and outflow at the Dowleswaram Cotton Barrage were recorded at 5.39 lakh cusecs.

With flood levels expected to rise further, Prakhar Jain directed officials to evacuate residents of low-lying areas and Lanka (river island) villages to safer locations and rehabilitation centres as a precautionary measure. “The situation is being monitored round the clock. People should avoid crossing flooded roads, streams, culverts and causeways, and stay away from the river for bathing, swimming or fishing,” he said.

The DMA also forecast light to moderate rainfall in isolated parts of Manyam, Alluri, Polavaram, Anakapalli, Kakinada, Konaseema, East Godavari, West Godavari, Eluru and Tirupati districts on Saturday.

The public has been advised to remain vigilant and contact the emergency helplines 112, 1070, or 1800-425-0101 for assistance if required.