Mounting Rainfall Elevates Flood Concerns: Bhakra Dam Water Level Reaches 1673.91 Feet
Local Authorities are Closely Monitoring the Water Levels and Weather Forecasts
NANGAL: With unceasing rain showers lashing across Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, the specter of floods looms for the third time in Punjab. Recent reports indicate fluctuating water levels at the Bhakra Dam, indicating a continuous flow. While the dam's water level had temporarily receded to 8 feet below the danger mark, it has now further receded to a level 7 feet below the perilous threshold of 1680 feet. Presently, the water level at Bhakra Dam stands at 1673.91 feet.
The situation remains precarious, particularly as the flood gates of the Bhakra Dam have been activated up to a distance of 4 feet. Consequently, the dam recorded an inflow of 52810 cubic feet per second (cusecs) of water. Out of this, 41143 cusecs are being channelized through the dam's turbines, while an additional 15358 cusecs are being discharged through its flood gates.
In coordination with the management of Nangal Dam, a calculated strategy is in place. The Nangal Hydel Canal is releasing 12350 cusecs of water, Anandpur Sahib Hydel Canal is contributing 10150 cusecs, and the Sutlej River is witnessing a discharge of 35900 cusecs. Collectively, this totals to an outflow of 58400 cusecs of water from the Nangal Dam.
The repercussions of heightened water levels have already begun to manifest, with water encroaching upon several villages that had been evacuated by the administration as a precautionary measure. The district administration, supported by teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), remains actively engaged in ongoing rescue and relief operations in the affected areas.
While the situation remains dynamic, the local authorities are closely monitoring the water levels and weather forecasts. As the region braces itself against the potential impact of the mounting rainfall, community vigilance and preparedness are paramount to ensuring the safety and well-being of the affected populations.