Vijayawada: Heavy inflows from upstream projects and continuous rains pushed the Krishna river into spate, affecting Dasara celebrations in Vijayawada. Authorities released 3.71 lakh cusecs of water from the Prakasam barrage by Tuesday evening, prompting precautionary measures along the riverfront.The surge followed intense rain in parts of Rayalaseema, with 3.41 lakh cusecs at Srisailam and 3.48 lakh cusecs at Nagarjunasagar recorded on the same day. Officials confirmed that all 73 gates of the barrage were lifted to regulate flow into the Bay of Bengal. The catchment downstream of the Pulichintala project further added to the inflows.Traditionally, thousands of devotees visiting Kanaka Durga temple take a holy dip at any of the river ghats like Durga ghat, Bhavani ghat, and Punnami ghat before joining the festivities. This year, however, high flood levels forced restrictions. Authorities installed temporary shower facilities using river water for devotees wishing to perform ritual baths. Barricades and bunds were also set up along the riverbanks to ensure safety.In addition, water sports at Bhavani Island were suspended until conditions stabilised. Special teams are monitoring the ghats to regulate crowd movement during the festive season.Downstream, several island villages were cut off due to rising waters. District officials arranged boat services to maintain connectivity and urged residents, including cattle herders, to avoid entering the river.Meanwhile, security personnel and revenue staff were deployed at vulnerable points to prevent untoward incidents during the festive rush.
