Heavy rain shuts Chaparai, Kothapalli waterfalls in ASR district; roads damaged

Torrential rain across Alluri Sitharama Raju district on Wednesday pushed up water levels in streams and forced the closure of popular tourist spots, including the Chaparai and Kothapalli waterfalls, as a precautionary measure.

Visitors and residents have been advised to stay away from streams, waterfalls and other vulnerable locations.

G.K. Veedhi mandal recorded close to 50 mm of rainfall, while Hukumpeta, Paderu and Pedabayalu each received more than 30 mm. Munchingputtu saw around 39 mm, officials said.

The downpour disrupted road connectivity in parts of G.K. Veedhi mandal. Stretches of road in the Jerrela area were damaged or washed away, hampering movement in interior pockets.

With rain continuing and the possibility of more heavy spells, Joint Collector T. Sripooja directed officials to remain on high alert and monitor conditions closely across the Agency mandals.

Officials have been asked to identify vulnerable locations in advance, especially places where streams, rivulets and seasonal waterways could overflow, and to make special monitoring arrangements for them.

The Joint Collector also instructed that dedicated control rooms be set up in every mandal, with regular updates on local conditions, rainfall, stream water levels, road connectivity, public transport, electricity supply and other essential services sent to the District Control Room.