Flood situation still grim in Kolhapur and Sangli, rains abate

Kolhapur, Aug 1 (UNI) Even as there has been reduction in the rains abated in Kolhapur and Sangli districts since yesterday, the flood situation continues to be grim with no recession in the waters of Krishna, Warna and Panchaganga rivers.

District collector office and irrigation department said 339.8 mm rainfall was recorded in Kolhapur district during the last 24 hours ended at 0800 hrs this morning, as comapred to yesterday's figure of 544.3 mm. However, surplus water discharge from the dams continued, resulting in no change in flood situation.

Today, 62,292 cusecs water has been released from Koyna dam against yesterday's figure of about 72,000 cusecs, while Warna dam has released 13,021 cusecs, Radhanagri dam 4,600 cusecs, Tulshi 1,021 cusecs, Dudhganga dam 3,200 cusecs and Kasari dam 1,564 cusecs, in their respective river beds, causing a swell in the river, sources said.

Panchaganga river is flowing at a height of 41.4 ft at the Rajaram 'Bandhara' (weir) near Kasaba-Bavada suburb, as against the danger mark of 39 ft.

In Shirol tehsil, 11 villages still remain cut-off from communication and other transportation links. Four villages - Rajapur, Khidrapur, Bustwad and Rajapurwadi have been marooned and army jawans have been engaged to carry relief and rescue work there, sources said.

Meanwhile, the water level of Krishna river near Airwin bridge, close to Sangli, is flowing alarmingly at 50.5 ft (danger mark - 45 ft).

A large number of villages in Sangli situated on the banks of Krishna river are still inundated, while some of the city areas are also affected, sources added.

UNI BBK GK MSJ RS1449