A rescue operation in Telangana's Khammam district turned into a major emergency after two boats capsized in the overflowing Bethupalli Lake on Wednesday. Eleven personnel from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and Fire Services went missing while attempting to rescue five fishermen stranded in the rising floodwaters. Ten rescuers have since been brought safely ashore, while one remains missing.
The incident took place in Sathupalli mandal as heavy rainfall associated with Cyclone Murasu caused water levels to rise sharply. The rescue teams had ventured into the overflowing Betupally Cheruvu to reach the stranded fishermen when their boats overturned in the strong currents.
Following the incident, the SDRF launched an extensive search operation using additional boats. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) were also called in from Bhadrachalam to assist with the rescue efforts.
Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy directed the Khammam District Collector to intensify operations and ensure the safety of all missing personnel. He also instructed the Chief Secretary to continuously monitor the situation and coordinate the ongoing rescue efforts.
Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy, who represents Khammam district, is personally monitoring the situation. He confirmed that 10 of the 11 personnel had been rescued from the strong floodwaters. The location of the remaining missing rescuer had also been traced, raising hopes of a successful recovery.
The minister travelled from Hyderabad to Narayanapuram village in Kallur mandal and was expected to visit Bethupalli Lake to assess the rescue operation.
Heavy Rain Disrupts Life In Andhra Pradesh
Meanwhile, Cyclone Murasu continues to affect several parts of Andhra Pradesh, with heavy rainfall triggering flash floods, overflowing streams and disruptions to road connectivity.
In Devipatnam mandal of Polavaram district, the Kondakaluva stream overflowed onto the Indukurupeta-Ravilanka causeway, cutting off access to nearly 20 tribal villages.
In Gopalapuram, East Godavari district, floodwater reportedly entered residential houses and shops, leaving several families in distress. Residents have appealed to the authorities for immediate relief and rehabilitation.
In another rescue operation in Eluru district, police personnel rescued 22 people who were stranded near an under-construction National Highway bridge at Routhugudem village.
PM Modi Assures Central Assistance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday to review the situation following two cyclones affecting the state within a week.
Naidu briefed the Prime Minister about the widespread damage and sought necessary assistance from the Centre. Modi appreciated the state government's relief efforts and assured support.
The Chief Minister also conducted an aerial survey of cyclone-affected areas across Guntur, Prakasam and Bapatla districts, including Chilakaluripet, Ongole, Kothapatnam, Chinaganjam, Chirala and Bapatla. Adverse weather conditions prevented the helicopter from landing.
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