Heavy rains in Nilgiris and Kerala forests have increased water inflow to Pillur Dam. District administration issues fifth consecutive day of flood warning to riverside residents.
Coimbatore: The district administration has issued a flood alert for the fifth consecutive day on July 20 to residents living along the banks of the Bhavani River in Mettupalayam and Sirumugai areas. This precautionary measure comes in response to the rising water levels in the Pillur Dam due to heavy rainfall in its catchment areas.
The Nilgiris and Kerala forest regions, which form the catchment areas of the Pillur Dam in Mettupalayam, have been experiencing heavy rainfall over the past few days. This has led to a significant increase in the water inflow to the dam.
As a result of the increased inflow, the water level in the dam began to rise rapidly. Four days ago, the water level reached 97 feet, just 3 feet short of the dam's full capacity of 100 feet. Currently, the dam is receiving an inflow of 10,120 cubic feet per second, which is being released as surplus water.
The continuous release of excess water from the Pillur Dam has prompted authorities to maintain the flood alert for areas downstream along the Bhavani River. Residents of Mettupalayam and Sirumugai regions have been advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
The district administration is closely monitoring the situation and has urged people living in low-lying areas near the river to stay alert and follow any evacuation instructions that may be issued if the water levels continue to rise.