The capital region of Andhra Pradesh – Amaravathi and major city Vijaywada has turned into a virtual lake due to record-breaking rainfall of 37 CM in just one day, heaviest rain in 50 years, causing extensive damage and loss of life. In Krishna River, around 9.7 lakh cusecs of flood water was discharged from Prakasam Barrage. If we recall, that flooding of this magnitude last happened in 1998. Due to heavy flow of Krishna River, the unexpected surge of the Budameru River in Vijayawada led to extensive flooding, engulfing half of the city's territory.
Without adequate preparation and investment in flood mitigation infrastructure, Vijayawada could face increasing risks of severe flooding in the future, especially as climate change and urban growth put more pressure on the city’s flood management systems.
Flood Paralyses Life in Vijayawada
Death toll rises 20
Affected 2.70 Lakh residents in Vijayawada
50000 people evacuated
NDRF and Power Boats come for rescue operations
Crops damaged in thousands of acress
432 trains cancelled in Vijayawada Zone
History of Floods in Vijayawada
Vijayawada, located on the banks of the Krishna River in Andhra Pradesh, has faced multiple instances of flooding due to its proximity to the river and the Prakasam Barrage.
Floods of 1969: One of the most severe floods in Vijayawada’s history occurred in 1969. Heavy rains in the catchment areas of the Krishna River caused the river to overflow, inundating large parts of the city. This flood resulted in massive damage to homes, agriculture, and infrastructure, leading to displacement of thousands of people.
1997 Krishna River Floods: In August 1997, Vijayawada experienced another major flood due to the overflowing Krishna River. Large parts of the city were submerged, causing significant damage to properties and affecting daily life. This flood was caused by heavy rainfall in the upstream regions of the river, leading to excess water release from the Prakasam Barrage.
2009 Floods: In October 2009, Vijayawada faced severe floods due to heavy rains in the Krishna River basin. The river breached its banks, causing water to inundate low-lying areas of the city. The flood affected thousands of people, especially in the Krishna delta region, damaging crops, homes, and infrastructure.
2020 Krishna River Floods: Vijayawada faced moderate flooding in August 2020 due to heavy monsoon rains and the subsequent release of water from upstream reservoirs into the Krishna River. Low-lying areas were submerged, but the damage was not as severe as in earlier flood events.
Causes of Flooding in Vijayawada
Proximity to the Krishna River: Vijayawada's location along the banks of the Krishna River makes it naturally prone to flooding. Heavy rainfall in the river's catchment areas, coupled with the release of water from upstream dams like Nagarjuna Sagar and Srisailam, often results in the river overflowing.
Overflow of the Prakasam Barrage: The Prakasam Barrage regulates the flow of the Krishna River, but during heavy monsoons or when upstream reservoirs release excess water, the barrage cannot contain the water, leading to flooding in downstream areas, including Vijayawada.
Low-lying Areas: Parts of Vijayawada are situated in low-lying regions, especially near the riverbank, making them more vulnerable to flooding when the river swells.
Drainage Issues: Rapid urbanization has reduced the city's natural drainage capacity. Encroachments on water bodies and improper stormwater management result in waterlogging and increased vulnerability to floods.
Threats for the Future of Vijayawada
Flash Rains & Floods Due to Climate Change: Climate change is expected to intensify the frequency and intensity of rainfall in the Krishna River basin. This could result in more frequent floods in Vijayawada, as the river may overflow more often due to unpredictable weather patterns.
Upstream Water Management: The Krishna River is controlled by a series of dams and barrages upstream, such as the Nagarjuna Sagar and Srisailam. During heavy rains, these reservoirs release water, which increases the risk of flooding downstream in Vijayawada. Any mismanagement of water releases, especially during heavy monsoons, poses a significant threat.
Urbanization and Encroachment: Vijayawada is growing rapidly, with increased urbanization encroaching on natural floodplains and drainage channels. If this continues unchecked, the city’s ability to manage floodwaters will be further reduced, making even moderate rains a potential cause for urban flooding.
Aging Infrastructure: The Prakasam Barrage, which was constructed in 1957, is a key piece of infrastructure for controlling the flow of the Krishna River. However, the aging structure requires regular maintenance and modernization to ensure it can handle future water levels, particularly with the increased risk of floods due to climate change.
Sea-Level Rise and Coastal Flooding: Although Vijayawada is not directly on the coast, its proximity to coastal areas and the presence of the Krishna River delta make it indirectly vulnerable to rising sea levels and coastal floods. Rising sea levels can affect the backflow of river water, increasing the risk of river flooding during high tides and storms.
Mitigation Measures for the Future
Improving Flood Management Infrastructure: Modernizing the Prakasam Barrage, expanding reservoir capacities upstream, and ensuring proper maintenance of flood control structures are essential for reducing future flood risks in Vijayawada.
Strengthening Drainage Systems: Vijayawada city must be upgraded its urban drainage infrastructure, including storm water drains and pumps, to cope with heavy rains and prevent urban flooding during the monsoon season.
Floodplain Protection and Zoning: Protecting and restoring natural floodplains around the Krishna River is critical. The government must regulate construction and encroachment in vulnerable areas, especially along the riverbanks, to ensure these regions can act as natural buffers during floods.
Flood Forecasting and Early Warning Systems: Advanced flood forecasting systems and early warning mechanisms can help alert citizens and government authorities in time to evacuate and take preventive measures.
Disaster Preparedness and Evacuation Plans: Vijayawada should continue to develop and implement comprehensive disaster management plans, including efficient evacuation strategies for residents in flood-prone areas.
