Transport facilities to Srisailam from Telangana, Dornala cut off due to heavy rains

Heavy rains induced by Cyclone Montha in the Nallamala forest ranges triggered landslides and flash floods to minor rivulets in the ranges cutting off Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy temple in Srisailam. Transportation facilities to the temple have been cut off from Telangana and also from Dornala in Prakasam district.

The temple management, however, ensured that the devotees did not face inconvenience and provided food and snacks.

Atmakur Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Ramanji Naik said that the heavy rains and huge inflows into streams at several places led to disruption of traffic. “With water flowing dangerously at Ligala Ghat, we have asked the Telangana police to stop traffic coming from that side. We are coordinating with our counterparts,” he said.

Similarly on the Dornala-Srisailam route, Pedavagu is gushing with water and traffic was stopped at Dornala itself. Apart from overflowing rivulets and streams, landslips have been reported at some places between Dornala to Sunnipenta stretch.

At Pathalaganga near Srisailam, boulders fell on three shops causing damage. Landslides were also reported near Srisailam Dam view point and Lingalagattu.

Srisailam Temple Executive Officer M. Srinivasa Rao said that they distributed ’annaprasadam’ to the stranded devotees at Shikhareswaram and also at the bus stand. Mr. Srinivasa Rao said that traffic movement to Srisailam has been stopped in view of rains and they have arranged free distribution of food and snacks to the devotees. Pulihora (lemon rice), upma, sambar rice and curd rice was served to the devotees.

Mr. Srinivasa Rao spoke with the devotees and asked them to follow the guidelines issued by the police and district administration while returning to their places, whenever traffic resumes.