Is There a Flood Alert for the Lower Bhavani River in Erode, TN?
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Synopsis
Residents near the Lower Bhavani River in Erode, Tamil Nadu, are on high alert as the Bhavanisagar Dam approaches critical water levels. With expected rainfall and rising inflows, precautionary measures are crucial. Learn more about the potential flood risks and safety recommendations.
Key Takeaways
- Flood alert issued for Lower Bhavani River residents.
- Bhavanisagar Dam water level nearing 100 feet.
- Flood risk due to ongoing rainfall.
- Surplus water to be released into the river.
- Public advised to relocate to safer areas.
Chennai, July 27 (NationPress) A flood alert has been declared for individuals residing along the banks of the Lower Bhavani River, as the water level in the Bhavanisagar Dam (Lower Bhavani Dam) located in Tamil Nadu's Erode district is escalating quickly and is projected to hit 100 feet by Sunday.
Officials from the Water Resources Department (WRD) reported that the dam measured a water level of 99.06 feet at 11 a.m. on Saturday, with an inflow of 7,383 cusecs.
The dam’s ultimate capacity stands at 32.80 tmcft, correlating to a water level of 105 feet. Once the level reaches 100 feet—anticipated on Sunday morning—excess water will be discharged into the Bhavani River.
A senior official from the WRD indicated that the inflow has increased due to ongoing rainfall in the dam’s catchment regions, which are expected to persist for several days.
“Following our standard operating procedure, excess water must be released when the water level attains 100 ft in July. We will maintain the level at 100 ft until July 31. Starting August 1, we can hold it up to 102 ft,” he stated.
This is the first instance of releasing surplus water from the Bhavanisagar Dam since October 2022.
During the interim, water was only discharged for irrigation and drinking needs. The department cautioned that the current water discharge of 3,000 cusecs could increase up to 10,000 cusecs or more, depending on the inflow.
“All individuals living along the Bhavani River and in low-lying regions should relocate to safer areas. Precautionary measures must be adopted to protect lives and property,” the WRD emphasized.
Erode District Collector S. Kandasamy has urged the public to avoid the river.
“People should not engage in bathing, fishing, photography, or allow livestock near the river,” he advised.
In the neighboring Tiruppur district, water release from the Amaravathi Dam has been escalated to 6,950 cusecs.
The dam, which has been at full capacity for over 45 days, recorded a level of 88.16 feet (3,880 mcft) on Saturday, just shy of its maximum of 90 feet (4,047 mcft). The inflow stood at 10,961 cusecs, with an outflow of 12,450 cusecs.
“With inflow expected to rise further, we plan to lower the dam’s maintenance level to 87.5 feet soon,” a WRD official mentioned.
Authorities are diligently monitoring the situation and advise the public to adhere to safety protocols.
Point of View
It is our duty to inform the public about rising water levels and potential flooding in Erode. The community must prioritize safety and stay vigilant, following guidelines issued by the authorities to prevent loss of life and property.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current water level of the Bhavanisagar Dam?
The current water level is 99.06 feet, with expectations to reach 100 feet soon.
What actions are residents advised to take?
Residents are advised to relocate to safer areas and avoid activities near the river.
When was the last time surplus water was released from the dam?
The last release of surplus water occurred in October 2022.
What is the inflow rate at the dam?
The current inflow rate is 7,383 cusecs.
What safety measures are being enforced?
Residents are urged to follow safety protocols and heed warnings from the Water Resources Department.
