Tue Aug 26 14:14:05 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Flood victims in Vijayawada, India, organized by the United Forum of Budameru Flood Victims and supported by the Communist Party of India-(Marxist), are planning protests to demand permanent solutions to recurring flood damage. They are seeking significant government funding for flood mitigation, including reservoir construction, canal modernization, and improved drainage systems. The forum accuses the government of negligence and calls the recurring floods a “man-made disaster,” citing the devastating impact of the 2024 floods on the population, economy, and property. They criticized the lack of early warning systems and the inadequacy of relief efforts, stating that promised funds were not used for permanent solutions.

**News Article:**

**Vijayawada Residents to Protest Recurring Budameru Floods, Demand Government Action**

**VIJAYAWADA, India – August 26, 2025** – Fed up with recurring flooding, residents of Vijayawada are planning a series of protests demanding the government take permanent measures to mitigate the devastating effects of the Budameru canal floods. Organized under the banner of the United Forum of Budameru Flood Victims, and with support from the Communist Party of India-(Marxist), the demonstrations will commence with a protest at Daba Kottu Centre on August 30, followed by a massive demonstration and petition submission at the Collector’s office on September 1.

The decision to escalate their demands was reached at a round table discussion held in Vijayawada today. Representatives from various colonies, apartments, business associations, and residents impacted by the floods voiced their frustration with the lack of long-term solutions.

The forum is demanding that both the Central and State governments allocate ₹10,000 crore for Budameru flood mitigation. A key request includes the Centre approving ₹6,880 crore aid already sought by the state government. Specific projects demanded include the construction of four upstream reservoirs, modernization of the canal system based on the Mitra Committee recommendations, building a parallel canal, strengthening flood protection walls, and increasing the capacity of the diversion channel.

Speakers at the meeting recalled the catastrophic 2024 floods, which submerged 6.5 lakh people for ten days, resulting in 50 deaths and extensive property damage. They criticized the government’s response as inadequate and negligent, labeling the situation a “man-made disaster” due to the failure to implement preventative measures and provide early warnings. Residents reported ongoing trauma, economic hardship, and potential mass migration due to the recurring threat.

“The government is playing with the lives of lakhs of people,” stated Andhra Pradesh Urban Citizens Forum convener Ch. Baburao, echoing the sentiment of many present. “This negligence in flood control is criminal irresponsibility.” The forum leaders insisted that the government prepare a Budameru modernization project, call for tenders and start works immediately.

The upcoming protests signal a growing frustration among Vijayawada residents with the government’s handling of the Budameru flood issue and a determination to secure lasting solutions before another devastating flood hits the region.

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