Overview
- Heavy rain from Cyclone Montha triggered a rapid rise in the Penna River, snapping moorings and sweeping three sand-collection boats toward the barrage.
- Two boats were secured earlier, while a 35-tonne vessel lodged near the crest of the old dam about 400 metres upstream posed the greatest threat.
- A coordinated effort by NDRF, SDRF, police, Krishnapatnam Port Patrol, and Fire and Irrigation teams used ropes, heavy boats and an anchor to tow the vessel ashore after about 12 hours.
- District Collector Himanshu Shukla and Superintendent of Police Ajitha Vejendla monitored the overnight operation as crews also brought the other two boats to safety.
- Officials said an uncontrolled impact could have damaged the structure, wasted stored water needed for 3.85 lakh acres, and disrupted bridge access between Podalakur and Sangam.