Nalgonda: Water level in the Godavari River has increased to 28.5 feet at Bhadrachalam in Bhadradri-Kothagudem district on Thursday. Officials said the discharge of water in the river at Bhadrachalam bridge is 3,88,452 cusecs. The first flood warning would be issued once the water level reaches 43 feet. Barricades are to be set up at the bathing ghats of Godavari River as well as near residential areas to prevent people from going near the river. Significantly, 24 gates of Taliperu project at Cherla in Bhadradri-Kothagudem district remain lifted to discharge excess Godavari water.