Satna, Aug. 31 -- Madhya Pradesh Police have intensified patrolling in Chitrakoot amid a rise in the water level of the Mandakini River, with authorities stepping up surveillance and safety measures for locals in view of the prevailing flood like situation.

Police teams are closely monitoring areas along the riverbank and have evacuated houses, settlements and ashrams located close to the river as a precautionary measure. Continuous public announcements are also being made to warn people against approaching the river and to move to safer locations.

Sub Divisional Officer of Police (SDOP, Chitrakoot), Rajesh Singh Banjare, told ANI, "Police are continuously monitoring the situation and the houses, settlements, and ashrams along the river...