Godavari recedes, normalcy returns to flood-hit Mulugu and Bhupalpally
HYDERABAD: The flood situation in Mulugu and Jayashankar Bhupalpally districts improved significantly on Sunday as the Godavari receded following a decline in inflows from the Godavari and Indravati rivers. The fall in water levels allowed normal life to gradually return in several flood-affected areas.
Residents of flood-hit villages in the agency areas began returning to their homes after spending several days in relief camps. Heavy rain triggered by a low-pressure system had pushed the Godavari level at Ramannagudem to 17.33 metres on July 31, prompting the Irrigation Department to issue the third flood warning.
As the river receded, the third and second flood warnings were withdrawn on August 1. With the water level falling to 14.82 metres on Sunday morning, officials also withdrew the first flood warning.
Normalcy is gradually returning to flood-prone areas, including Mulugu, Eturnagaram, Kannayigudem, Mangapet, Mahadevpur and Palimela. Revenue, police, irrigation and Panchayat Raj officials have begun assessing damage and restoring power supply, drinking water and other essential services in the affected villages.
However, traffic on National Highway-163 near Wazeedu mandal remains disrupted at a few locations because of flood damage. Restoration work is under way, and officials are monitoring the situation.
Flood inflows into the Sammakka Sagar Barrage have also declined significantly, reducing the threat to downstream areas.
District authorities appreciated the coordinated efforts of the district administration, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, public representatives, officials from various departments, voluntary organisations and media personnel in managing the flood situation.
Although the immediate threat has eased, officials advised residents of low-lying areas to remain vigilant as the monsoon season is still under way.
