Why Has the Mettur Dam in Tamil Nadu Reached Full Capacity Again?
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Synopsis
The Mettur Dam in Tamil Nadu has reached full capacity for the seventh time this year, highlighting the impact of the ongoing southwest monsoon. Authorities are on high alert as record inflows continue from Karnataka, prompting water releases to ensure safety downstream.
Key Takeaways
- The Mettur Dam has reached full capacity of 120 feet for the seventh time this year.
- Heavy inflows from the southwest monsoon and Karnataka are responsible for the high water levels.
- Authorities are releasing water to manage inflow and prevent flooding.
- Warnings have been issued for residents in vulnerable areas.
- Monitoring efforts are ongoing to ensure safety.
Chennai, Oct 20 (NationPress) The Mettur Dam located in Tamil Nadu's Salem district has once again hit its maximum capacity of 120 feet on Monday, marking the seventh occasion it has filled this year due to consistent inflows from Karnataka and the Cauvery River’s catchment regions.
Thanks to the ongoing southwest monsoon, heavy rainfall has continued across the Cauvery basin, leading the dam to record an inflow of 20,000 cubic feet per second (cusecs). In response, authorities have released a corresponding amount of water downstream.
Officials from the Water Resources Department (WRD) report that the dam currently holds 93.47 thousand million cubic feet (TMC ft) of water. To manage the excess inflow, water is being discharged through the 16-vent Ellis Saddle surplus sluices.
Moreover, 800 cusecs are being released via the upper sluice gates to cater to drinking water needs in the downstream districts.
Revenue and disaster management authorities have issued alerts to residents in low-lying and riverbank areas, urging them to evacuate to safer locations as a precaution. Public announcements and loudspeaker warnings have been disseminated in at-risk villages along the Cauvery to avert accidents.
Officials have advised against bathing, washing clothes, or taking selfies near the floodwaters.
“The persistent southwest monsoon rains over the Cauvery catchment and upstream reservoirs in Karnataka have resulted in significant inflows to Mettur,” stated a WRD official.
“Residents should stay vigilant and cooperate with local authorities as discharges will continue based on inflow levels.”
The Mettur Dam, a key reservoir in Tamil Nadu and vital for delta irrigation, reached its full capacity earlier on June 29, July 5, July 20, July 25, August 20, and September 2 this year — representing an unusually high frequency in a single monsoon season.
Officials emphasized that ongoing monitoring is in place to ensure safe water regulation and to prevent flooding in surrounding areas.
With the northeast monsoon anticipated to intensify later this month, authorities are maintaining a state of high alert to effectively manage future inflows.
Constructed across the Cauvery River in 1934, the Mettur Dam remains essential for irrigation, drinking water supply, and power generation across Tamil Nadu’s delta districts.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the significance of the Mettur Dam not only for Tamil Nadu but also for the broader context of water management in India. The recurrent filling of the dam underscores the challenges posed by monsoon variability and the need for effective disaster management protocols.
NationPress
20/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current capacity of the Mettur Dam?
The Mettur Dam has reached its full capacity of 120 feet.
How many times has the dam filled this year?
The Mettur Dam has filled to capacity seven times this year.
What is the reason for the current inflow of water?
Continuous southwest monsoon rains and inflows from Karnataka are contributing to the water levels.
What precautions are being taken for residents?
Authorities have issued warnings for residents in low-lying areas to evacuate and avoid any activities near floodwaters.
When was the Mettur Dam constructed?
The Mettur Dam was constructed in 1934.
