Tungabhadra Dam Gate Collapse in Karnataka Triggers Flood Alert Along River Krishna
News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/11th August 2024
A significant incident occurred at Karnataka’s Tungabhadra dam on Saturday night when gate number 19 was washed away due to a snapped chain link. The collapse of the gate has raised major concerns for the downstream regions as it led to the uncontrolled release of floodwaters. The event has prompted officials to issue warnings and take precautionary measures to protect the safety of residents living along the River Krishna.
Following the collapse, the initial discharge of water from the dam was nearly 35,000 cusecs, and officials anticipate that the total discharge downstream could reach up to 48,000 cusecs. This sudden release of water poses a serious threat to the areas located along the river’s banks, especially in Andhra Pradesh.
In response to the situation, the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) swiftly issued a flood warning to residents in vulnerable regions. The warning specifically targets those living in the Kurnool district, particularly in the areas of Kosigi, Mantralayam, Nandavaram, and Kouthalam. Residents in these areas have been advised to stay vigilant and take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
“The floodwaters are being discharged at a significant rate,” read an official statement from APSDMA. “People in the affected areas should be alert and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.” This statement underscores the urgency of the situation and the need for immediate action to mitigate potential risks.
In the wake of the incident, Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar is en route to the dam for an on-site inspection. His visit is expected to provide a better understanding of the situation and guide the next steps in managing the aftermath of the gate’s collapse.
The Tungabhadra dam is a crucial infrastructure facility in Karnataka, playing a vital role in water management, irrigation, and power generation for the region. The collapse of one of its gates has not only disrupted the normal operations of the dam but also placed a significant strain on downstream regions, where the sudden influx of floodwaters poses a real danger.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and further updates are expected as more information becomes available. For now, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of residents in the affected areas and preventing further damage from the incident.
As the floodwaters continue to be discharged, residents along the River Krishna are urged to remain alert and follow the guidance provided by local authorities. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of regular maintenance and the need for robust disaster management systems to handle unexpected situations like the one at the Tungabhadra dam.
In conclusion, the collapse of gate number 19 at the Tungabhadra dam has triggered a significant flood threat along the River Krishna. With the discharge of water expected to increase, residents in the affected regions must stay vigilant and take all necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property.
