Was a Major Disaster Averted at Sangam Barrage?
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Synopsis
A potential disaster was narrowly avoided at the Sangam Barrage in Andhra Pradesh as NDRF teams worked tirelessly to extract a 35-tonne boat that became lodged. The successful operation, involving multiple agencies, highlights the importance of swift action in preventing catastrophic flooding and protecting agricultural land.
Key Takeaways
- Timely intervention by NDRF teams prevented a potential disaster.
- The operation involved coordinated efforts from multiple agencies.
- The Sangam Barrage is vital for irrigation in the region.
- Heavy rainfall from Cyclone Montha contributed to the incident.
- Community safety is paramount in disaster management.
Amaravati, Oct 30 (NationPress) A significant calamity was averted at the Sangam Barrage across the Penna River in Andhra Pradesh's Nellore district on Thursday as a 35-tonne boat, which had become lodged in the barrage, was successfully retrieved by the NDRF teams.
This boat was one of three utilized for sand collection, all of which were swept away by intense currents following heavy rainfall from Cyclone Montha on Wednesday.
While the teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) managed to bring two boats ashore on Wednesday, the third remained trapped, posing a risk of crashing into the anicut.
A dedicated team of NDRF swimmers and personnel labored for approximately 12 hours to extract it. They secured the boat on both sides to three larger boats using ropes and anchored it.
The operation was overseen by District Collector Himanshu Shukla, Superintendent of Police Ajitha Vejendla, and other officials.
Thirty members each from NDRF and SDRF, alongside 100 police officers, Krishnapatnam Port Patrol staff, and fire and irrigation officials, participated in this critical operation.
The ropes tying the three boats to the bridge railing snapped due to the rising floodwaters on Wednesday, causing the freed boats to drift towards the barrage.
One of the boats became lodged in the sand jetty area, while another reached the Kanigiri reservoir. The third boat was stuck at the top of the old dam, about 400 meters upstream from the barrage.
Retrieving the third boat, weighing 35 tonnes, proved challenging. After strenuous efforts by NDRF teams and others for 12 hours, it was finally released.
Collector Himanshu Shukla praised the NDRF team for their efforts.
Officials indicated that had the NDRF not intervened to manage the swept-away boats, the barrage would have faced catastrophic damage, leading to severe flooding in low-lying areas.
The Sangam Barrage, equipped with 85 gates, serves to irrigate 3.85 lakh acres of fallow land in Nellore district. Officials emphasized that any damage to the barrage would have resulted in significant water wastage and economic losses for farmers in the upcoming season.
Point of View
The successful intervention by the NDRF at the Sangam Barrage exemplifies the importance of preparedness and collaboration among various agencies in disaster management. The timely response prevented what could have been a devastating situation for the local community and agricultural sector.
NationPress
02/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the boat to get stuck in the Sangam Barrage?
The boat was swept away by strong currents following heavy rainfall from Cyclone Montha, leading to it becoming lodged in the barrage.
How long did it take to retrieve the boat?
It took approximately 12 hours for the NDRF teams and other personnel to successfully pull the boat out.
What would have happened if the boat had not been retrieved?
If the boat had remained stuck, it could have rammed into the anicut, potentially causing massive destruction and flooding in low-lying areas.
Who monitored the rescue operation?
District Collector Himanshu Shukla, Superintendent of Police Ajitha Vejendla, and other officials closely monitored the situation during the rescue operation.
What is the significance of the Sangam Barrage?
The Sangam Barrage irrigates 3.85 lakh acres of fallow land in Nellore district, making it crucial for the local agricultural economy.
