Is a Flood Threat Looming for 11 Districts in TN as Mettur Dam Approaches Capacity?
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Synopsis
The Water Resources Department of Tamil Nadu has issued a flood warning for 11 districts in the Cauvery delta region as the Mettur dam approaches full capacity. With rising water discharge from Karnataka's reservoirs, residents are advised to take precautions and prepare for potential flooding.
Key Takeaways
- Flood warning issued for 11 districts in Tamil Nadu.
- Mettur dam approaching full capacity of 120 feet.
- Water discharge from Karnataka's reservoirs increased to 95,000 cusecs.
- Residents advised to relocate to safer areas.
- Authorities monitor the situation closely amid predicted heavy rains.
Chennai, Aug 18 (NationPress) The Water Resources Department (WRD) of Tamil Nadu has raised an alarm regarding potential flooding for 11 districts within the Cauvery delta region. This warning comes on the heels of a significant surge in water discharge from reservoirs in Karnataka into the Mettur dam.
According to the advisory, the combined outflow from both the Krishna Raja Sagar (KRS) and Kabini dams has been escalated to 95,000 cusecs, resulting in considerable inflow into the Mettur reservoir.
With the dam filling rapidly, officials predict it will soon reach its full capacity of 120 feet. Upon reaching this threshold, excess water will be released into the Cauvery River.
The department cautions that an initial discharge of between 50,000 and 70,000 cusecs of surplus water may occur, with the potential for this volume to increase based on inflows.
Residents along the Cauvery River and in vulnerable areas of Salem, Erode, Namakkal, Karur, Ariyalur, Tiruchi, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, and Cuddalore districts are urged to relocate to safer locations and take necessary precautions to protect life and property.
As of Monday, the water level at the Mettur dam was recorded at 117.56 feet, nearing its full capacity of 120 feet. The current storage stands at 89.63 TMC, close to the maximum limit of 93.47 TMC. Inflow has increased to 7,435 cusecs, a rise from 6,223 cusecs on Sunday.
Officials have also increased water discharge for delta irrigation to 35,000 cusecs from 22,000 cusecs the previous day, while maintaining 500 cusecs for canal irrigation.
A senior official from the Water Resources Department stated, "Discharge will be incrementally increased based on inflows, and once the dam reaches full capacity, all inflow will be released."
The state government has instructed district administrations to remain vigilant and ensure readiness for relief and evacuation measures should flooding occur.
With heavy rains anticipated in Karnataka and the catchment regions of the Cauvery, authorities are diligently monitoring the situation to prevent loss of life and damage to crops in the delta.
Point of View
The flood warning issued in Tamil Nadu serves as a reminder of the urgent need for proactive disaster management. The Water Resources Department's actions reflect a commitment to safeguarding lives, highlighting the importance of community preparedness in the face of natural calamities.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What districts in Tamil Nadu are under flood warning?
The districts under flood warning include Salem, Erode, Namakkal, Karur, Ariyalur, Tiruchi, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, and Cuddalore.
What is the current water level at Mettur dam?
The current water level at Mettur dam is 117.56 feet, nearing its full capacity of 120 feet.
How much water is being discharged from the Mettur dam?
The Water Resources Department has warned that an initial discharge of between 50,000 and 70,000 cusecs of surplus water may occur.
What precautions should residents take?
Residents along the Cauvery River and in low-lying areas are advised to relocate to safer locations and take measures to protect life and property.
What measures is the state government taking?
The state government has instructed district administrations to remain on high alert and ensure readiness for relief and evacuation measures.
