Owing to continuous rainfall in the catchment area of the Harangi Dam, the district’s principal reservoir, the inflow into the dam has increased substantially. As a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of the dam, more than 13,000 cusecs of water is being released into the Harangi River through the main crest gates, according to Mahesh, Executive Engineer of the Harangi Irrigation Division of the Cauvery Neeravari Nigam Limited.
Assistant Executive Engineer I.K. Puttaswamy said the dam is currently receiving an inflow of about 11,800 cusecs. In view of the increased inflow and in the interest of dam safety, excess water is being discharged through the main gates as well as the power house. With the increased release of water into the river, the Irrigation Department has instructed villagers and the general public residing along the riverbanks not to venture into the river or allow livestock to graze near the banks. Residents living in low-lying riverside areas have also been advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.
Officials of the concerned Gram Panchayats have been requested to disseminate the warning among residents in vulnerable areas. The Kushalnagar Rural Police Station has also been informed to take precautionary measures. The dam authorities have been directed to remain on alert and implement all necessary safety measures, Engineer Kiran Devaiah said.
