Heavy rain triggers waterlogging across MP’s Satna; Birsinghpur worst hit as Mandakini River swells
Satna, Aug 29 (IANS) The monsoon has once again turned fully active over Satna district in Madhya Pradesh. Heavy overnight rains late on Friday led to widespread waterlogging in both rural and urban areas on Saturday morning.
Mandakini River, its tributaries and streams are overflowing at several places, and flood-like conditions have intensified in low-lying localities, causing significant hardship to residents. Even a dam is reportedly overflowing in Chitrakooot that caused flooding in Satna town. Inundation was reported at several petrol pumps, places of public importance and certain rail tracks, causing disruption in train traffic.
“All eight sluice gates of Bansujara dam are now opened to ease the pressure,” an official said.
State Congress president Jitu Patwari has made appeals to the party workers to help people in difficult situations, particularly in villages which are reportedly surrounded by floodwater.
The situation is most critical in Birsinghpur, where water has risen to waist-deep levels in many neighbourhoods. Rainwater has entered several homes, making it difficult for people to step outside.
Local residents report that daily life has been disrupted, with water accumulating around houses. Concerns are mounting among those living in low-lying zones that the situation could worsen if the rain continues.
Similar waterlogging has been reported in parts of Kotar and Nagod (Nagaud) regions. Roads and low-lying stretches have been affected, while rising water levels in rural rivers and streams are impacting traffic movement.
The administration has urged people to stay away from rivers, streams and fast-flowing water, and to avoid crossing flooded roads unnecessarily during the rainy season.
The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for Satna district, forecasting continued light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms over the next five days, along with heavy downpours at isolated places. Continuous rain is pushing water levels higher and recreating flood-like conditions in rural pockets.
Amid the challenges, Municipal Corporation Commissioner Shailendra Singh has been on the ground since early Saturday. He is personally visiting waterlogged areas across the city, assessing the situation on the spot and directing officials and field staff for immediate remedial action, a government statement said.
Municipal teams are simultaneously carrying out drainage operations in various wards. Efforts include clearing blocked drains and culverts, deploying earthmoving machines where needed, and creating alternative channels to drain accumulated water from areas where normal drainage is not possible. Prompt action is being taken to restore normalcy as the rain continues.
–IANS
sktr/uk