Is the Lower Bhavani Reservoir Benefiting from Steady Rainfall?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Lower Bhavani Reservoir is gradually filling up due to steady rainfall.
- The current inflow rate is 4,966 cusecs.
- Current water level is at 90.39 feet, below the FRL of 105 feet.
- Water discharge for irrigation is being managed effectively.
- Farmers are hopeful for the upcoming cultivation season due to the reservoir's status.
Chennai, June 25 (NationPress) The Lower Bhavani Project (LBP) Reservoir located at Bhavanisagar in the Erode district is progressively filling due to consistent rainfall in the catchment zones, as reported by officials from the Water Resources Department (WRD). The dam, which spans across the Bhavani River, has been experiencing enhanced inflow in recent days.
As of 8 a.m. on Wednesday, the reservoir was recording an inflow of 4,966 cusecs (cubic feet per second), WRD officials informed reporters.
The current water level in the dam is measured at 90.39 feet, compared to its full reservoir level (FRL) of 105 feet.
Total water storage has reached 21.84 Thousand Million Cubic Feet (TMC ft), against the dam's full capacity of 32.8 TMC ft.
To meet irrigation demands, the department is currently releasing 1,355 cusecs of water through the LBP Canal, along with the Thadappalli, Arakkankottai, and Kalingarayan canals.
This distribution is anticipated to aid farmers across Erode and parts of Karur and Tiruppur districts.
The Bhavanisagar dam is crucial for irrigation in western Tamil Nadu, supporting agricultural activities over 2.5 lakh acres annually.
Furthermore, the stored water also satisfies the drinking water requirements of residents in Sathyamangalam, Gobichettipalayam, and sections of Bhavani taluk in Erode district.
With the reservoir continuing to receive substantial inflow, local farmers are optimistic about sufficient water availability for the upcoming cultivation season.
"If this inflow persists for a few more days, we are hopeful for a seamless irrigation schedule this year," remarked a farmer from the Gobichettipalayam area.
Officials have indicated that the situation is under close observation, and the dam's inflow and outflow will be adjusted based on rainfall patterns and irrigation needs in the weeks ahead.
The Bhavanisagar reservoir is pivotal for sustaining agricultural productivity in the region and is deemed a lifeline by local farming communities.