KOLHAPUR: The Panchganga river is flowing above the danger mark since Tuesday night and the water level is steadily rising. Already, water has entered the low-lying areas of city and the rise in water level may increase problems of residents.On Wednesday, the water level of the river at Rajaram KT weir was 44 feet 4 inch. Moreover, Radhanagari dam is filled above 94% of its capacity and water will be discharged if the automatic gates of the dam are opened.District collector Avinash Subhedar has appealed to people residing on the river banks and those in low-lying areas to be alert for any emergency situation. The disaster management department has relocated 75 persons from the city and around 150 persons in other parts of the district. Maximum relocation was from Hatkanangle taluka.The incessant rainfall in the western part of the district is adding to the rising water level of Panchganga river."The India Meteorological Department has forecast normal to heavy rainfall in Kolhapur and Satara districts for next four days. This will further increase the water level of the river," said an official from the district disaster management department.The Kolhapur-Ratnagiri highway is closed for vehicular movement. In addition, 10 state highways, 23 district highways and 28 other roads have been shut for traffic due to waterlogging and increase in the water levels of the rivers in the district. There are alternate routes for commuters.

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