Cyclone Montha's Fury: Boats Tamed, Barrage Saved in Nellore

Nellore City News

Posted by AI on 2025-10-31 13:53:56 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-16 00:56:38

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In a dramatic overnight operation, authorities in Nellore district averted a potential disaster at the Sangam Barrage, showcasing the power of quick response and inter-departmental collaboration. Three boats, weighing up to 30 tonnes, had broken loose during Cyclone Montha's wrath, threatening the critical infrastructure. The barrage, a lifeline for irrigation and connectivity, was in the path of these drifting vessels, with floodwaters flowing at over one lakh cusecs.

The situation demanded immediate action, and so it came. Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy's directive sparked a swift response. District Collector Himanshu Shukla, SP Ajitha Vejendla, RDO B. Pavani, DSP K. Venugopal, and Somasila Project Chairman Keshava Chowdary oversaw a coordinated effort. Teams from NDRF, SDRF, Fire Services, Krishnapatnam Port, and local fishermen joined forces, battling the elements to secure the boats.

After hours of tireless work, the operation succeeded. The 30-tonne boat, a significant threat, was pulled to safety at Beeraperu on Thursday morning. This success was a testament to the dedication of the teams involved and the effectiveness of the district's emergency response. The relief was palpable, as the barrage's structural integrity and its vital role in irrigating 3.85 lakh acres and connecting Podalakur and Sangam villages were preserved.

RDO Pavani's words echoed the sentiment: "We are grateful for the tireless efforts of all departments. This incident highlights the importance of preparedness and teamwork. We will take steps to prevent such incidents, ensuring the safety of our critical infrastructure." This near-miss serves as a reminder of the region's resilience and the crucial role of swift, coordinated action in disaster management. With Cyclone Montha's impact still being assessed, the district's focus on prevention and preparedness is more critical than ever.

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