Telangana State Development Planning Society (TSDPS) records have revealed that the state is experiencing the highest rainfall in its history, with several areas witnessing torrential downpours. In a shocking revelation, the recent rainfall has surpassed all previous records, causing widespread flooding and disrupting normal life across the state. Venkatapur in Mulugu district reported the highest rainfall, with a staggering 616.5 mm.
Following closely, Chityal in Jayashankar Bhupalpalli district recorded the second-highest rainfall at 616.5 mm. Moreover, Chelpur, Regonda, and Mogullapalli in the same district also experienced significant rainfall, logging 475.8 mm, 467 mm, and 394 mm, respectively. Notably, Karakagudem in Bhadradri Kothagudem district registered a substantial 390.5 mm of rainfall. The situation turned critical in northern Telangana as heavy rainfall continued for two consecutive days.
According to the TSDPS bulletin, 20 out of the state’s 33 districts witnessed rainfall exceeding 200 mm, indicating the widespread impact of the extreme weather conditions. The state capital, Hyderabad, also experienced its share of heavy rainfall, with Miyapur in Serilingampally mandal recording 65.8 mm. A separate bulletin from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasted heavy to very heavy rains in various districts, including Hyderabad, Jangaon, Bhupalpally, Karimnagar, and others, over the next 24 hours. As the rains intensified, videos of overflowing rivers, water bodies, and inundated residential areas started circulating on social media platforms.
One particular video from Moranchapalli village in Jayashankar Bhupalpalli district showed people stranded on rooftops, desperately seeking help in the midst of the flooding. In another distressing incident, the national highway between Parkal and Bhupalpally got cut off due to overflowing streams, leaving numerous truck drivers stranded and further complicating the situation. The situation worsened for a group of 80 tourists who were trapped near the Mutyaladhara waterfalls in Jayashankar Bhupalpalli district. The tourists, hailing from different parts of the state, were returning from an evening trip when they got stuck in the forest.
An alert was raised, leading to prompt action by the district disaster response force (DRF), the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local police, who successfully rescued all 80 individuals. Fortunately, there were no injuries, except for one person who required medical attention. The rescued tourists were provided with food and medical assistance. As the state grapples with this unprecedented rainfall, authorities are on high alert, and rescue teams remain vigilant to address any emergencies that may arise due to the ongoing heavy rains. The situation serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and powerful forces of nature and the need for preparedness and swift action to safeguard lives and property.