- Tungabhadra Dam stores 92.4 tmcft of water, nearing its full capacity.
- Temporary crest gate aids water collection after recent damage.
- Reservoir expected to provide ample water for irrigation and other uses.
Will the Tungabhadra Dam Overflow Soon?
The Tungabhadra reservoir is nearing its full capacity, holding 92.4 tmcft of water as of Friday. This development brings much-needed relief to farmers in the region, especially those anxiously awaiting the onset of the first crop season. The dam’s storage level has risen significantly in the past 12 days, thanks to the installation of a temporary crest gate after the original one was damaged on August 10. This gate has allowed the reservoir to collect an additional 22 tmcft of water, despite the earlier loss of 36 tmcft due to the gate damage.
Kannaiah Naidu, an expert in irrigation, noted that if the reservoir reaches a capacity of 90 tmcft, it would be sufficient to irrigate around 15 lakh acres in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana for the first crop. He assured that this water would also be available for drinking and industrial purposes, providing a lifeline to many communities in the region.
What Does the Future Hold for the Reservoir?
Currently, the dam’s water level stands at 1,629.5 feet, just shy of its maximum elevation of 1,633 feet. With an inflow rate of 34,083 cusecs, the reservoir is expected to reach full capacity soon, requiring only an additional 4 feet of water. Nearly 1 tmcft of water is being released into various canals daily to manage the reservoir’s levels and ensure the surrounding areas receive adequate water.
The ongoing monsoon in the Malnad region has been contributing significantly to the dam’s water levels, and this trend is expected to continue for several more days. According to sources from the Tungabhadra board, the inflow could surpass 50,000 cusecs, which would raise the reservoir’s storage level to 98 tmcft. This increase might necessitate the opening of certain crest gates to release water into the river. However, officials have stated that there are currently no plans to open the gates.
Conclusion: A Positive Outlook for Farmers and Water Users
With the monsoon season continuing and good retreating rains expected later this year, there is optimism that the Tungabhadra reservoir will accumulate more than 90 tmcft of water during October and November. If this occurs, not only will the first crop be well-supported, but the second crop will also receive sufficient water. This promising situation offers hope to farmers and water users in the region, ensuring that agricultural and industrial activities can proceed smoothly. The Tungabhadra dam’s near-full capacity is a positive sign, marking a significant step towards meeting the water needs of the region.
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