Swollen streams cut-off tribal villages in Alluri Sitharama Raju district

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A group of tribals crossing an overflowing stream at an interior area in Alluri Sitharama Raju district on Saturday. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Continuous rain has disrupted normal life in several tribal areas of Alluri Sitharama Raju district over the past three days, with swollen streams, washed-away culverts, and inundated farmlands cutting off some hamlets from the plains. However, the rain began to recede on Sunday afternoon (September 13, 2026), raising hopes of a gradual improvement in the situation from Monday as water levels in the streams are expected to decrease.

Several tribal habitations were affected as major geddas, including Matsyagedda, Rayigedda and Chilakalamamidi Gedda, swelled and flowed dangerously. Culverts and small crossings in several hamlets were damaged or submerged, disrupting road connectivity and making it difficult for residents to travel to the plains. In some remote areas, tribals were reportedly forced to cross overflowing streams, risking their lives. Agricultural fields across several locations were also inundated, with large stretches of farmland resembling ponds.

The rain also disrupted movement in the border areas of ASR district and Odisha. At Sileru, water overflowed onto the Kangurukonda and Potteru bridges, leaving several vehicles stranded. In A. Darakonda village at Sileru a wall collapsed and a house collapsed at a village in Chintapalli. No casualties were reported, said officials.

According to district authorities, ASR district received around 180 mm of rainfall between September 12 and the morning of September 13. Koyyuru recorded the highest rainfall at 36 mm, followed by Munchingputtu at 28.6 mm, G.K. Veedhi at 26.6 mm, Peda Bayalu at 19.4 mm, Chintapalli at 18.8 mm and Araku Valley at 12.2 mm. Ananthagiri, Paderu and several other mandals also received substantial rainfall.

Local-level officials have been alerted and asked to monitor vulnerable habitations, road connectivity, and stream crossings.

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