CWC Takes Up Study On Godavari Riverbed Profile

Vijayawada: The Central Water Commission has started cross-sectional studies on the Godavari riverbed profile to identify cleared stretches and fresh sand deposits from Kunavaram to Vadapalli during the post-monsoon period.

Armed with specific instruments, the CWC would examine the river bed levels, depth and sediment formation at certain places along its route twice, in the pre-monsoon season of May and in the post-monsoon season of November and onwards. Although the maximum water depth is estimated to be seven or eight meters in some parts of the river bed, CWC will determine the depths with the help of advanced technology.

Studies on the Godavari river bed profile will be of great help in case the water storage level in the dam or reservoirs in the dam decreases due to sand deposits and sediment formation.

With the help of data obtained through such studies, the government will initiate desilting steps at or near the dam to restore the storage capacity of the facility. This will be beneficial for farmers who can use the stored water to grow crops in the command areas of the project. This will also ensure increased supply of drinking water and water for industrial needs.

The commission is also continuing maintenance work at ‘indicator discharge sites’ along the river bed. They will be used to regularly measure the amount of water flow in the river. This will also ensure that the devices used for water gauge readings work properly and give accurate data on the discharge of water from the river into the sea.

Authorities will maintain such instruments and give them a fresh coat of paint to ensure proper maintenance and functioning.

Suman, senior division engineer of the central water commission, said, “We are initiating studies on the Godavari river bed profile and will alert the management to take necessary measures in the interest of the public.”