Leaders from Andhra Pradesh’s Nellore district have appealed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah to prioritise the strengthening of the Penna River flood wall, stressing that it is crucial for protecting thousands of residents and preventing future disasters.

Demand for Urgent Flood Protection Measures

Nellore Member of Parliament Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy and Kovur MLA Vemireddy Prashanthi Reddy met the Union Home Minister in New Delhi and requested immediate support for strengthening the flood protection structures along the Penna River. They highlighted that several villages located along the riverbanks remain vulnerable during heavy rains and sudden water releases from upstream reservoirs.

The leaders explained that erosion and weak embankments pose a serious threat to nearby habitations, agricultural lands, and important public infrastructure. They urged the Centre to extend financial and technical assistance to undertake permanent flood-control measures.

Past Floods Raised Serious Concerns

The request comes in the wake of repeated flooding incidents in Nellore district. In previous years, heavy inflows into the Penna River led to breaches in bunds, inundating several villages and damaging roads, bridges, and farmland. Thousands of residents were forced to relocate temporarily as floodwaters surrounded low-lying areas.

Local representatives pointed out that unless permanent flood walls and strengthening works are completed, similar situations could recur, especially during cyclone seasons and heavy monsoon periods.

Protection of Heritage and Villages

The leaders also emphasised the need to safeguard historic locations and densely populated villages along the river stretch. They warned that continued erosion could damage important landmarks and threaten livelihoods dependent on agriculture and fisheries.

They proposed comprehensive strengthening of riverbanks, construction of retaining walls, and improved drainage systems to reduce flood risks and protect the region from future disasters.

Centre Assures Consideration

During the meeting, the Union Home Minister reportedly assured that the proposal would be examined and necessary support would be considered. Officials are expected to review the technical requirements and explore possible funding under disaster management or flood mitigation programmes.

Long-Term Safety Priority

Local leaders stressed that strengthening the Penna River flood wall is not just an infrastructure project but a long-term safety measure. With population growth and expanding settlements near riverbanks, the need for durable flood protection has become increasingly urgent.

Residents in flood-prone areas are hopeful that the Centre’s intervention will help accelerate the project and provide lasting protection against recurring floods in Nellore district.