RAJAMAHENDRAVARAM: Rajamahendravaram is facing severe waterlogging as heavy rain coincides with rising flood levels in the Godavari River, preventing stormwater from draining naturally. The city’s drainage system depends largely on the Nalla Channel, which carries rainwater and sewage into the river.
During floods, the Godavari rises above the channel outlet, causing river water to flow back into the channel and block the discharge of stormwater. As a result, rainwater accumulates in several low-lying localities, including Aryapuram, Tummalava, Addepalli, Nataraj Theatre area and Railway Station Road.
Municipal authorities are operating high-capacity pumps to discharge water from the Nalla Channel into the Godavari. However, rising river levels reduce pumping efficiency and increase the risk of backflow.
Drinking water supply is also affected as muddy floodwaters and floating debris obstruct intake pumps at the city’s water treatment plants. The latest flooding has once again exposed Rajamahendravaram’s inadequate drainage infrastructure.
Canal modernisation works worth nearly Rs 100 crore under the AMRUT scheme, and the proposed Rs 260-crore underground drainage project are yet to be completed.
Canal widening and desilting works along Korukonda Road, Kambala Cheruvu, Aryapuram and the canal link near Kotipalli Bus Stand and the railway station also remain pending.
Civic experts say completion of these projects is crucial to improve stormwater drainage and prevent recurring flooding during heavy rains and Godavari floods.
Speaking to TNIE, Urban MLA Adireddy Srinivas said that a comprehensive plan has been prepared and will be implemented before Godavari Pushkaram to prevent severe waterlogging in the city. He said all pending works will be completed on a war footing basis.
Despite its historical prominence, Rajamahendravaram continues to struggle with poor civic infrastructure, making waterlogging one of the city’s most persistent urban challenges.
RMC Commissioner Rahul Meena said the construction of a 50 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant under the Centre’s Namami Godavari programme has entered its final phase, marking a significant step towards reducing pollution in the river and improving urban sanitation and a solution to submergence in the city.
