Maha: Heavy rains in Nashik, Godavari just below danger mark

Heavy rains in Nashik in Maharashtra has brought the water level of Godavari river just below the danger mark, with Gangapur and Darna dams 87 and 88 per cent full respectively, an official said on Saturday.

Water had to be released from Gangapur Dam into the Godavari river and people living along its banks were alerted in advance, the Irrigation department official informed.

He said water had reached the neck of the Dutondya Maruti, a statue of Hanuman on the bed of Godavari river, and just a few feet below the Ram Setu bridge.

"The Nilkanteshwar, Naro Shankar and Yashwantrao Maharaj temples are surrounded by water. Bridges like Victoria and Gadge Maharaj are attracting crowds watching the rising water levels. The district administration is asking them to disperse," the official said.

He added that a bridge on Godavari river at Saykheda village has been closed to traffic due to rising water levels.