BBMB begins water release from Nangal Dam to fulfill demand for paddy cultivation in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan
Water level at Bhakra Dam is currently approximately 17 feet higher compared to same period last year, but still 100 feet below danger mark
PTC Web Desk: The Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) has taken proactive steps to meet the increasing demand for water in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Chandigarh, and Delhi for the cultivation of paddy. Under its existing programme, the BBMB commenced water release into the Sutlej from the Nangal Dam as early as 6 am, with a flow rate of 4,000 cusecs until noon. This water release will continue until the required quantity is achieved.
Director of Water Regulation, Rajeev Kumar Goyal, confirmed this move, reassuring the public that there is no cause for alarm as the released water does not affect flood-prone areas. However, he appealed particularly to the rural communities residing along the banks of the Sutlej to remain vigilant.
Goyal said both gates of the Nangal Hydel Channel were currently operational, with a flow rate of 10,150 cusecs in the Nangal Hydel Channel and 12,350 cusecs in the Anandpur Sahib Hydel Channel. Currently, over 22,000 cusecs of water are being released, and any further increase in demand from partner states will result in additional water releases into the Sutlej River, up to a maximum of 7,000 cusecs.
He said the water level at the Bhakra Dam was currently approximately 17 feet higher compared to the same period last year, but still 100 feet below the danger mark. As of Thursday morning, the inflow at the Bhakra Dam had reached 22,905 cusecs, with the reservoir level standing at 1584.21 feet. Additionally, the Travani Hydel Channel had released 26,000 cusecs of water, while the Nangal Dam released 4,000 cusecs of water into the Sutlej by noon.