Harangi Dam Water Level Nears 2,859-ft Mark, Flood Warning Issued To Manage Rising Inflows

In response to heavy rains in the Harangi basin, 1,000 cusecs of water have been released from the Harangi reservoir into the river as a precautionary measure. Currently, the reservoir holds water up to 2,849.08 feet, nearing its full capacity of 2,859 feet. The present water storage stands at 5.7 TMC out of a total storage capacity of 8.5 TMC.

With the reservoir close to reaching its maximum level, excess water is being drained into the river to prevent overflow. The Irrigation Department authorities has issued a warning to residents along the banks of the Harangi and Cauvery rivers to take precautions, protect their property and livestock, and move to safer locations if necessary.

Madikeri MLA Dr. Mantar Gowda performed a worship ceremony at the reservoir's four crest gates before releasing the water. He stated, "It has been raining frequently in the Harangi basin, and the inflow of water is increasing. According to the Meteorological Department's forecast, heavy rainfall is expected in the catchment areas, which will further increase the inflow. In this context, water will be released from the dam in a phased manner to ensure the safety of livestock."

Engineer Puttaswamy, Executive Officer of the Harangi Rehabilitation Department, reiterated the warning to residents along the Harangi and Kaveri rivers to take necessary precautions and move to safe places.

Several officials and local leaders were present during the water release, including Kushalanagar Planning Authority Chairman Pramod Muthappa, Member Kiran Kumar, Kushalanagar Municipality Nominee Member Shiva Shankar, Harish, Kudige Gram Member T.P. Hamid, Torenur Water Users Association President Panduranga, and others.

In a related development, MLA B.K. Sangameshwar observed the ongoing efforts to prevent water leakage from the General Gate in the Bhadra Reservoir on Sunday. He had previously held an emergency meeting with the engineers of the Irrigation Department's 2nd Circle, directing them to undertake immediate emergency repairs to prevent further leakage. The officials subsequently reviewed the emergency work being carried out.

Assuring the farmers, MLA Sangameshwar said, "Farmers should not worry. Our main aim is to protect the interests of farmers. In the near future, a Mysore KRS model mini park will be constructed on hundreds of acres of land in front of the reservoir."