Godavari Floodwaters Recede at Bhadrachalam, Downstream Areas Remain on Alert

The flood situation in the Godavari River at Bhadrachalam has begun to improve, with water levels gradually receding after several days of intense flooding, according to the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA).

In a statement released on Sunday, the authority said the second flood warning at Bhadrachalam had been withdrawn as the river level fell to 47.9 feet. During the recent flood spell, the Godavari had risen to a peak of 55.1 feet, crossing the 55-foot mark and prompting authorities to issue the third flood warning due to the severity of the situation.

Despite the improvement at Bhadrachalam, officials cautioned that the flood impact continues in the downstream regions of the river. The water level was recorded at 21.5 metres at Kunavaram and 13.3 metres at Polavaram. At the Dowleswaram Barrage near Rajamahendravaram in East Godavari district, heavy flood discharge continues, with both inflow and outflow measured at 1.46 million cusecs.

APSDMA Managing Director Prakhar Jain urged residents in flood-affected areas to remain vigilant, stressing that although the situation at Bhadrachalam has eased, the downstream flood threat remains significant. He warned people not to attempt crossing overflowing streams, canals, causeways, or low-lying roads, as fast-moving floodwaters can pose a serious risk to life.

He also appealed to the public to cooperate with officials engaged in relief and rescue operations and to strictly follow all safety advisories issued by the authorities.

The disaster management authority further advised people to avoid travelling, bathing, swimming, boating, or fishing in the Godavari River until flood conditions return to normal. Officials warned that such activities could prove life-threatening under the prevailing conditions and urged residents to remain alert until the floodwaters recede completely.