By | Kuwarchand Mandle
Nanded, Maharashtra: Relentless rainfall has battered Nanded district for the past eight days, swelling rivers and streams and forcing authorities to open multiple gates of the Vishnupuri Dam. The situation has turned critical as nearly one lakh cusecs of water is being discharged into the Godavari River, prompting flood alerts for villages located along its banks.
⭕ Continuous Downpour
According to official records, Nanded received 95 mm of rainfall on September 14, while the previous day saw 17.7 mm of rain. Earlier this week, several revenue circles in the district reported more than 65 mm in just 24 hours, highlighting the intensity of isolated but heavy showers. The prolonged wet spell has saturated the ground and raised water levels in rivers and reservoirs.
⭕ Dam Gates Opened
With a sharp increase in water inflow, ten gates of the Vishnupuri Dam have been opened. Officials from the Irrigation Department confirmed that about one lakh cusecs of water is being released into the Godavari River. The discharge has led to high water levels and heavy flooding downstream. Authorities further warned that if inflows continue, four more gates may have to be opened soon.
⭕ Flood Alert and Administration Response
The district administration has issued a flood alert for all riverbank villages, urging residents to shift to safer areas and avoid venturing into swollen streams or low‐lying zones. Disaster management teams are on standby, and precautionary shelters have been arranged in vulnerable areas. The administration has also appealed to citizens to remain alert and follow safety advisories.
⭕ Rising Concerns
With one lakh cusecs of water already entering the Godavari, the risk of further flooding remains high. Farmers in low‐lying fields are reporting crop damage, and road connectivity in some rural pockets has been affected due to overflowing drains. Authorities are keeping a close watch on the situation as the rainfall activity continues.