Why Are Mullaperiyar Shutters Opening Today Amid Rising Water Levels?
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Synopsis
With water levels at Mullaperiyar dam rising dramatically due to ongoing rains, Tamil Nadu has decided to open the dam's shutters. Local authorities urge residents to stay vigilant and prepared for possible evacuations. Stay informed about weather updates as Kerala braces for heavy rainfall.
Key Takeaways
- Mullaperiyar dam shutters will open due to rising water levels.
- Residents near the Periyar River are advised to stay vigilant.
- Heavy rainfall is forecasted across Kerala over the coming days.
- Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to prevent flooding.
- Public urged to follow official alerts and safety guidelines.
Thiruvananthapuram, June 29 (NationPress) Due to persistent rainfall in the catchment regions, the water level at the Mullaperiyar dam reached 136 feet late Saturday night, leading Tamil Nadu officials to declare the opening of the dam's shutters at 10 a.m. on Sunday.
Authorities have cautioned that if the inflow continues to surge at the current rate, they may need to release water even earlier in the morning to prevent surpassing the dam's safety limit.
This decision comes as the inflow into the reservoir hit 5,867 cusecs, while Tamil Nadu is currently extracting 2,117 cusecs through the penstock and Irachipalam canal.
The initial plan includes the release of up to 1,000 cubic feet of water from the reservoir. District officials in Idukki have advised residents living along the banks of the Periyar River to stay alert and relocate to safer areas or designated relief camps if necessary.
Authorities emphasize that while there is no immediate danger, vigilance is vital given the swift rise in water levels and predictions of ongoing rain. By Saturday evening, the water level had already exceeded the critical rule curve mark of 135 feet, raising concerns that emergency measures might be needed overnight.
Rainfall in the catchment area has fueled this increase, with Thekkady and Periyar recording 5.4 mm and 19.4 mm, respectively, on Friday.
In the meantime, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Malappuram, and Wayanad districts on Sunday, predicting heavy (7-11 cm) to very heavy (12-20 cm) rainfall in isolated regions across Kerala over the coming days.
Strong surface winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph are also expected over Kerala and Lakshadweep.
Heavy rainfall is particularly anticipated on June 29, July 3, and July 4, according to the IMD.
As multiple weather systems, including new low-pressure areas over the Bay of Bengal and Kutch region, are projected to enhance rainfall across the state, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority has urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel near water bodies, stay informed through official alerts, and strictly follow safety guidelines issued by local authorities.
Officials are closely monitoring the situation to prevent flooding and ensure a prompt response in case of emergencies.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach this situation with urgency and responsibility. The rising water levels at the Mullaperiyar dam present a serious concern for local communities, and it is imperative for the public to heed the warnings from authorities. Continuous monitoring and adherence to safety protocols are essential to prevent potential disasters.
NationPress
29/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the opening of Mullaperiyar dam shutters?
The continuous rainfall in the catchment areas led to water levels rising to 136 feet, which necessitated the opening of the dam's shutters.
What safety measures are in place for residents near the Periyar River?
Authorities have advised residents to remain vigilant and move to safer locations or relief camps if necessary.
What is the forecast for rainfall in Kerala?
The IMD has issued a yellow alert, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall across several districts in Kerala over the next few days.
