100-metre breach in flood-hit Vijayawada: How the Army is fixing it
Indian Army is actively involved in rescue operations in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, after the Budameru rivulet overflowed, causing floods. The local administration sought the Army’s help to stop the flooding and manage the damage caused by the breach in the rivulet.
What led to the breach?
The Budameru rivulet, which flows through the city, burst its banks, causing widespread destruction. The civilian authorities were able to plug two smaller breaches, each around 10 metres wide. However, the third breach expanded to nearly 100 metres wide due to the high water pressure, making it much harder to control.
How is the Army plugging the breach?
To tackle the breach, Army engineers are using two layers of Gabion Baskets – containers filled with stones. These will be stacked to create a 4-metre-high wall, which will serve as a defence against the rushing water. This method, called rock armoring, is designed to hold back the water and prevent further widening of the breach.
What logistical support is being provided?
The Army, after conducting a detailed survey with the Irrigation Secretary, is using Hesco Bastions—modern barriers filled with sandbags—to help block the floodwaters. So far, 16,000 sandbags have been gathered, with 1,800 filled and ready to be deployed. Troops from the Madras Regiment and the Army Medical Corps are actively assisting with these efforts.
How is medical relief being provided?
Alongside rescue operations, the Army and local administration are offering medical aid to flood victims. So far,
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