Hyderabad: The Musi River in Hyderabad is once again surging with alarming intensity, echoing memories of its devastating 1908 flood. Heavy rainfall across the city and its catchment areas has led to significant water discharge from upstream reservoirs, pushing the river beyond safe levels.
In response, authorities have closed key bridges including the Moosarambagh-Amberpet bridge, Chaderghat causeway, and Jiyaguda 100-feet road. Traffic police have erected barricades and advised commuters to use alternative routes such as the Chaderghat and Golnaka bridges.
Five gates of the Himayatsagar reservoir have been opened to release excess water, contributing to the Musi’s swelling. With the India Meteorological Department forecasting continued rain and issuing orange alerts for August 13 and 14, the situation remains tense. Low-lying areas like Malakpet, Kishanbagh, Jiyaguda, Puranapul, MGBS, Chaderghat, and Golnaka have been placed on high alert. The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Assets Monitoring Agency (HYDRA) has urged residents to evacuate to safer locations, while GHMC teams are actively monitoring infrastructure and assisting with flood preparedness.
Hyderabad’s District Collector has inspected vulnerable zones along the river, emphasizing real-time monitoring and public safety. Emergency helplines have been activated: 040-23202813, 7416687878, 040-21111111, and 9000113667. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has reiterated his commitment to the Musi River Rejuvenation Project, which aims to link lakes and drains to prevent future waterlogging and purify the river by June 2026. The ₹3800 crore initiative includes advanced treatment facilities and long-term flood mitigation strategies.
A recent study published in Nature’s Scientific Reports has highlighted that 65% of the Osmansagar basin—part of the Musi catchment—falls under moderate to very high flood hazard zones, underscoring the region’s vulnerability. Residents are urged to stay vigilant, avoid flooded areas, and follow official advisories. The Musi’s fury is a stark reminder of Hyderabad’s need for resilient infrastructure and proactive disaster management.
