Water inflow into Mettur Dam decreases; slight rise in water level recorded.
Tamil Nadu: A decrease in water inflow into the Mettur Dam was recorded on Sunday (June 21). Due to reduced rainfall in the Cauvery River’s catchment area, the inflow dropped to 1,790 cubic feet per second (cusecs). Earlier that morning, the inflow stood at 2,253 cusecs before declining.
According to officials, the reduced rainfall in the catchment area has directly impacted the river’s flow, resulting in lower water inflow into the Mettur Dam. However, the outflow from the dam is being regulated as part of water management protocols. Currently, water is being released from the dam at a rate of 1,000 cusecs to meet drinking water requirements.
A slight rise in the water level has been recorded due to the difference between inflow and outflow. The water level, which was 79.21 feet on Sunday morning, rose to 79.26 feet. Although this increase is marginal, it depends on the balance between continuous inflow and outflow.
According to the Water Resources Department, the current water storage in the dam stands at 41.22 TMC (thousand million cubic feet). Officials state that while there is currently sufficient water available, the situation will need to be monitored closely in the coming days if the rainfall deficit persists.
The Mettur Dam is a vital water source within the Cauvery River system, serving both irrigation and drinking water needs. Consequently, fluctuations in its water level and flow directly impact agriculture and water supply in the surrounding regions.
Officials reported that the situation is currently under control, with regular monitoring of inflow and outflow. Adjustments to the release rate can be made if necessary to ensure that drinking water supply and irrigation activities remain unaffected.
The local administration has also appealed to the public to use water judiciously. Experts believe that if rainfall in the catchment area does not increase in the coming days, water management authorities may have to take stricter measures.
Overall, the water situation at the Mettur Dam is currently stable, but the reliance on rainfall means there remains a possibility of rapid changes in the situation.
