Over 270,000 Affected by Flooding in Vijayawada, Reports Andhra CM Naidu

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu stated on Sunday that heavy rainfall and swollen rivulets have caused severe flooding in Vijayawada, impacting over 2.7 lakh residents. The CM highlighted that Budameru, a rivulet near the city, breached its banks, flooding ground floors of homes in areas like Ajit Singh Nagar and Krishnalanka.

Flooding Impact and Response

Naidu mentioned that the breaches in Budameru have led to significant flooding in Vijayawada. He expressed concern over the rising floodwaters and noted that the situation could worsen. "It is very sad," Naidu said during a press conference at NTR district collectorate, adding that floodwaters are expected to rise further.

The Chief Minister also pointed out that heavy rainfall in Telangana's catchment areas is exacerbating the situation. He stated that unexpected torrential rain in Guntur and Vijayawada, estimated at 35 cm, along with inflows from various projects, has worsened the flooding.

Efforts to Mitigate Flood Damage

Director General of Police DGP Ch Dwaraka Tirumala Rao reported that several areas in Vijayawada are severely inundated. "Main problem now is that some areas in Vijayawada city itself are badly inundated," Rao said. He added that food is being distributed to affected residents, but evacuation efforts are hampered by a lack of boats.

Naidu has requested assistance from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, asking for power boats and six NDRF teams from other states. The Union Home Ministry assured Naidu that boats and NDRF teams would arrive before Monday morning.

Residents' Plight

Subbaraju, a resident of Ajit Singh Nagar, described the dire situation: "Water level has reached up to 10 ft and all ground floors and cellars were submerged." He noted that there has been no power since 8 am, affecting areas like Prakash Nagar and Payakapuram.

Residents are fearful of further water level rises and are avoiding going outside due to snake-infested floodwaters. Many ground floor residents have moved to upper floors for safety, while mobile phones have stopped working due to power issues.

Historical Context and Future Concerns

Naidu recalled that 9.7 lakh cusecs of floodwater were discharged from Prakasam Barrage by 9 pm on Sunday, surpassing the 1998 record of 9.24 lakh cusecs. He warned that the discharge could increase further.

The CM emphasised the need to face this crisis resolutely, noting that 16 wards in Ajit Singh Nagar are affected, with over 2.76 lakh people at risk of significant damage.

DGP Rao mentioned that additional boats and helicopters would arrive on Monday morning to aid in rescue operations. "Boats are not sufficient. We are getting more boats and also some helicopters tomorrow Monday morning," he said.

An Ajit Singh Nagar resident complained about the lack of warning from authorities regarding the floods. Another resident observed food packets being distributed but noted the chaotic traffic situation at Kanchikacherla near Vijayawada due to rain and flooding.

Home Secretary Govind Mohan assured Naidu that 40 power boats and six helicopters would be dispatched to Andhra Pradesh on Monday to assist with rescue efforts.

The Chief Minister's appeal for help underscores the severity of the situation as residents brace for potentially worsening conditions in the coming hours.