Is a Flood Alert Necessary as Vaigai Dam Approaches Its Limit?
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Synopsis
A Level 2 flood alert has been issued for five districts in Tamil Nadu due to the imminent full capacity of the Vaigai Dam. Continuous rainfall and inflows raise concerns about potential flooding, urging residents to stay vigilant and heed safety advisories.
Key Takeaways
- Flood alert issued for five Tamil Nadu districts.
- Vaigai Dam nearing full capacity of 71 feet.
- Continuous rainfall causing significant water inflow.
- Residents in vulnerable areas urged to remain alert.
- Authorities monitoring water levels closely.
Chennai, Aug 4 (IANS) A Level 2 flood alert has been issued for individuals residing along the banks of the Vaigai River in Tamil Nadu's Theni, Dindigul, Madurai, Sivaganga, and Ramanathapuram districts, as the Vaigai Dam is projected to reach its full storage capacity within the next 48 hours.
This warning follows persistent rainfall in the area and a surge in water inflow from the Mullaperiyar Dam.
Authorities have expressed concerns regarding potential flooding in downstream regions, urging residents in at-risk areas to remain vigilant.
As of Monday morning, the Vaigai Dam, located near Andipatti in Theni district, has a water level of 68.41 feet.
With the maximum reservoir level being set at 71 feet, officials expect the water level to rise to 69 feet later today and continue to increase due to heavy inflow.
Currently, the dam is receiving 1,594 cubic feet per second (cusecs) of water, while only 69 cusecs are being released to fulfill the drinking water needs of Madurai.
The total water reserve in the dam has now reached 5,421 cusecs. Authorities aim to let the dam reach its full capacity before releasing the surplus inflow, which could lead to flooding along the riverbanks.
In response, a yellow alert has been issued in Theni district, where ongoing rainfall continues to elevate water levels.
Once the dam reaches full capacity, all incoming water will be released downstream, potentially impacting low-lying regions in nearby districts.
Meanwhile, the Mullaperiyar Dam is also experiencing significant inflow, with 1,053 cusecs entering the reservoir every second. To handle this, authorities have escalated the outflow to 1,862 cusecs.
The continuous rainfall in the Western Ghats has caused rising water levels in various other dams and reservoirs across the region. Officials have cautioned residents in flood-prone areas to stay alert and adhere to safety guidelines, as water levels are under close observation.
Point of View
The flood alert in Tamil Nadu highlights the impacts of climate change and continuous rainfall patterns. Authorities are taking precautionary measures to protect vulnerable communities. Nationally, such events emphasize the importance of infrastructure resilience and disaster preparedness in the face of natural calamities.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current water level of the Vaigai Dam?
As of Monday morning, the water level of the Vaigai Dam is recorded at 68.41 feet.
How much water is currently being released from the Vaigai Dam?
At present, the dam is releasing only 69 cusecs of water to meet the drinking water needs of Madurai.
What is the expected full storage capacity of the Vaigai Dam?
The full storage capacity of the Vaigai Dam is set at 71 feet.
What districts are affected by the flood alert?
The flood alert affects Theni, Dindigul, Madurai, Sivaganga, and Ramanathapuram districts.
What precautions should residents take during a flood alert?
Residents should stay informed, follow safety advisories, and remain vigilant for any changes in water levels.
