Date:09/08/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/08/09/stories/2008080951710300.htm

Andhra Pradesh

Situation eases in flood-hit mandal

Staff Reporter

Kakinada: The situation in flood-ravaged Devipatnam mandal and other low-lying areas of the district improved on Friday as the water receded to some extent while there was a notable decrease in the inflows into the Godavari and its tributaries.

The water level at Dowleswaram barrage came down to 11 feet against the first danger mark of 11.75 ft and the flood discharge declined to 9 lakh cusecs.

There was a respite from the incessant rains that triggered floods, which inundated low-lying areas and crops in vast areas, especially in Rajahmundry and Amalapuram divisions.

Several villages were marooned.

As a result, people were forced to move around in boats while officials stepped up rescue and relief operations. Several families were displaced at Yanam as flood water entered the low-lying areas.

Till now, some 80 houses were fully damaged and more than 20 partially hit.

Maredumilli, Bikkavolu, Pithapuram, Kothapeta, Rajavommangi, P. Gannavaram and Kajuluru mandals received copious rain due to the intensified monsoon activity.

Officials of the revenue and other departments were alerted to take necessary steps to mitigate the impact of floods.