Flood situation still alarming along river Krishna

Vijayawada, Aug 11 (UNI) Following the discharge of 5.19 lakh cusecs of water into sea by the irrigation authorities from Prakasam barrage this morning, the flood situation continues to be alarming in the low lying areas along the Krishna river.

Official sources told UNI that about 5.18 lakh cusecs of water was released from Nagarjunasagar reservoir last evening after receiving heavy inflows from Jurala and Srisailam reservoirs due to heavy rains in Maharashtra. The water is likely to reach the barrage tonight.

The sources said the level at the Prakasam barrage crossed 14-ft mark and all the crest gates were lifted.

The second flood warning would be issued by the irrigation officials after the discharges from barrage cross 5.69 lakh cusecs.

The district administration had taken all the necessary steps to evacuate people living in low lying areas. However, Krishna District Collector Navin Mittal said the heavy discharges would continue for a couple of days and the administration was closely monitoring the situation.

As many as 4,400 people are staying in six relief camps in the city and the number is expected to go up to 7,000 today, the sources added.

Sources said more relief camps would be opened to accommodate more people.

UNI CS AJ AKJ BS1116