Central team visits flood-ravaged AP dist

Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, Aug 20 (UNI) The four-member team deputed by the Centre to estimate the flood damage caused by the overflowing River Godavari visited the worst-affected Narsapur Division in West Godavari.

The team went to Achanta Vemavaram where agricultural fields were still under water. It also inspected the bunds of River Vasistha Godavari at Burugupalli Village and assessed the damage to the Nakkala outfall sluice.

Team members Saxena, Rajasekhar, Gurumukhi and M V P C Sastry visited Penugonda Village and saw the photo exhibition on flood damage arranged by Information and Public Relations Department at Degree College.

Team Leader Saxena praised the district officials for their timely action in minimising the losses. He said the team would submit its report in time to the Centre for necessary action.

In his presentation, West Godavari Collector Lav Agarwal said the district suffered losses to the tune of Rs 110 crore.

He said Rs 72 crore was required for various works, including road repair. Crop losses were put at Rs 37.43 crore.

After 20 years, the heavy inflows in the river basin caused severe floods in the Godavari. It crossed the third level danger mark within 13 hours.

River Godavari and Kovvada Kalva Rivulet marooned the Polavaram Village, he added.

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