The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Karnataka’s Kodagu district until 8:30 a.m. on June 26, prompting authorities to issue a flood warning as water levels rise sharply in the Harangi dam near Kushalnagar.
As of 4 p.m. on June 25, nearly 10,000 cusecs of water had already been released from the dam due to incessant rainfall in the catchment areas. Officials warn that if the heavy rains continue, the inflow could increase significantly, pushing the dam towards its maximum storage limit.
I.K. Puttaswamy, Executive Engineer of the Harangi Rehabilitation Division in Kushalnagar, stated, “The inflow into the Harangi reservoir is increasing, and the dam may soon reach its maximum capacity. As a result, surplus water will be released into the river.”
Residents living along the banks of the Harangi and Cauvery rivers have been urged to relocate to safer areas and remain vigilant. Precautionary measures are being enforced to prevent any untoward incidents as the situation remains fluid.
The dam authorities, along with district officials, are continuously monitoring water levels and rainfall activity. Emergency teams are on standby to handle any worsening of the flood situation.
