Idukki: Intermittent and heavy downpour in the central Kerala region has led to rise in water levels in major rivers and in the Mullaperiyar dam where the water level touched 135.10 feet causing concerns among the families residing near the region and also the state dam safety authority.
Due to the harsh weather, an orange alert has been issued in Idukki, Wayanad, Pathanamthitta, Ernakulam and Palakkad districts. All other 9 districts have been issued a yellow alert by the official weather department.
Spillway shutters of Banasura Sagar dam to be raised
The spillway shutters of the Banasura Sagar dam was raised by 10 cm at 10 am on June 26 as the water levels in the dam started rising following heavy rains in the region.
Water will be gradually released into the river at a controlled rate of 50 cubic meters per second. Residents living near the banks of the Karamana Thodu and Panamaram rivers, as well as those in low-lying areas have been urged to remain vigilant.
As of Friday 8 am, the Mullaperiyar Dam recorded a water level of 135.05 feet and later at 10 am the water level has risen to 135.10 feet with strong inflow due to continuous rainfall. Tamil Nadu has issued a warning to the Idukki district administration, stating that if the water level exceeds the permitted limit of 136 feet, the dam’s spillway will be opened to release excess water into the Periyar river. However, as per the rainwater inflow, this is planned for June 28th.
Water reservoirs are nearing full capacity with shutters of Lower Periyar, Kallarkutty, Ponmudi and Malankara dams in Idukki have been opened. The release of water has led to flooding in the Muthirapuzhayar, Kalitar rivers and the adjoining streams in the region. The state district administration has requested people living near the banks of the rivers to exercise caution and not to venture near the rivers and streams as there are chances of landslips.
The district administration of Idukki have asked the tourism centres in the region to stop all adventure tourism activities till a new order is released.