Rising water levels of the Mandakini river have created flood-like conditions in Chitrakoot and nearby areas in Madhya Pradesh’s Satna district. In the aftermath of the deluge, homes and shops in Chitrakoot remain in disarray, with streets and businesses covered in mud and sludge as residents begin the grim process of assessing the damage.
Police officials have intensified patrolling in the Chitrakoot area, besides stepping safety measures for locals. They are closely monitoring the areas along the riverbank and have evacuated houses in the low-lying area and ashrams located close to the river as a precautionary move. Continuous public announcements are also being made to warn people against approaching the river and moving to a safer location.
Sub-divisional officer of police (SDOP), Chitrakoot, Rajesh Singh Banerjee, said, “Police are continuously monitoring the situation and the houses, settlements, and ashrams along the riverbank have been evacuated. We are also continuously making announcements, as SDRF and NDRF teams are also patrolling the area along with the police. We will make every effort to ensure there are no casualties.”
He further urged people living near the river as well as tourists visiting Chitrakoot to avoid going towards the riverbank and immediately move to safe places.
He further said, “If it rains upstream, the water level will rise and flow can increase suddenly. For instance, the water level rose by 10 to 15 feet within just two hours the day before yesterday. So my appeal is to move to a safe place, stay safe, and ensure the safety of yourself and your family.”
Locals have been urged to follow the safety advisories and stay away from the river until the situation improves.
Chitrakoot is located in MP’s Satna district and has been facing a flood-like situation following 14 hours of relentless rainfall, which has raised the levels of Mandakini river beyond the danger threshold. The river surged nearly eight to nine marks above the danger mark, surpassing the 23-year-old record.
The increasing water levels have raised concern in the areas along the riverbanks, prompting safety measures. Residents in flood-affected areas of Chitrakoot are facing severe hardships as infrastructure remains damaged and the streets are covered in mud and sludge following heavy flooding.
The Ramghat Bridge and several other villages in the vicinity of the river have been submerged in the water.