Second Godavari Flood Warning Issued as Relief Operations Intensify in Konaseema and Polavaram

Authorities in Andhra Pradesh have activated extensive flood relief and evacuation measures following the issuance of a second flood warning at the Sir Arthur Cotton Barrage at Dowleswaram in East Godavari district. Heavy water inflows in the Godavari and Sabari rivers have led to submerged low-lying areas, prompting swift interventions across Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema and Polavaram districts.

What Happened

As flood levels reached the second warning threshold at the Sir Arthur Cotton Barrage in Dowleswaram, approximately 14 lakh cusecs of flood water were released into the Bay of Bengal, while 8,400 cusecs were directed into the Godavari delta. Rising water levels along the Sabari river submerged the weekly shandy area in Polavaram district on Sunday, August 2, 2026. In response, local district administrations initiated flood protocols to deploy teams and establish temporary relief facilities.

Key Highlights

• Water Discharge: 14 lakh cusecs of flood water released into the Bay of Bengal and 8,400 cusecs released into the Godavari delta from Dowleswaram.
• Deployment in Konaseema: Boats, along with State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel, have been deployed across Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema District, as confirmed by District Collector R. Mahesh Kumar.
• Relief Camps in Chintoor: A total of 118 relief camps have been prepared to manage flooding from the Sabari and Godavari rivers in the Chintoor agency of Polavaram district.
• Supply Distribution: Essential commodities are being distributed to affected residents, with 10,000 mosquito nets ready and an additional 9,000 scheduled for distribution by Sunday evening, according to the Chintoor ITDA Project Officer.

Why This Matters

Reaching the second flood warning level requires immediate activation of emergency protocols to safeguard communities living along the Godavari and Sabari river basins. The discharge of 14 lakh cusecs into the sea helps mitigate barrage pressure, while local rescue teams and relief camps work to provide shelter and basic supplies to displaced individuals.

What to Watch Next

Rescue and administrative teams will continue evacuation and relief management across Chintoor agency and Konaseema district while monitoring flow rates at the barrage. Commodity distribution and setup across the 118 relief camps remain ongoing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What warning level has been issued at the Sir Arthur Cotton Barrage?

The second flood warning level is currently in force at the Sir Arthur Cotton Barrage at Dowleswaram in East Godavari district.

How much water is being released from the barrage?

Around 14 lakh cusecs of flood water is being let into the Bay of Bengal, and 8,400 cusecs is being released into the Godavari delta.

What relief measures are active in Polavaram and Konaseema?

NDRF and SDRF personnel alongside boats are deployed in Konaseema district. In Polavaram district’s Chintoor agency, 118 relief camps are prepared, and essential commodities along with thousands of mosquito nets are being distributed.

Source: Based on official statements reported by The Hindu.