Mullaperiyar shutters to open today; yellow alert in 5 districts
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Thiruvananthapuram: Amid persistent heavy rainfall in the Mullaperiyar catchment areas, the water level at the dam surged to 136 feet late Saturday night, prompting Tamil Nadu authorities to announce the opening of the dam’s shutters at 10 a.m. on Sunday.
With the inflow rising rapidly—reaching 5,867 cusecs—officials cautioned that water might be released earlier than planned to maintain safety margins. Currently, Tamil Nadu is drawing 2,117 cusecs through the penstock and the Irachipalam canal, while preparations are in place to release up to 1,000 cusecs through the shutters.
Although there is no immediate threat, authorities have urged residents along the Periyar River, especially in Kerala’s Idukki district, to remain alert. People living in low-lying areas have been advised to relocate to safer locations or official relief camps as a precaution.
By Saturday evening, water levels had already surpassed the critical rule curve mark of 135 feet, raising concerns about potential emergency interventions if inflows intensify overnight. Localised rainfall continues to contribute to the inflow, with Thekkady and Periyar receiving 5.4 mm and 19.4 mm of rain, respectively, on Friday.
The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Malappuram, and Wayanad districts for Sunday, forecasting isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall (7–20 cm) over the coming days. Strong surface winds reaching speeds of 40–50 km/h are also expected across Kerala and Lakshadweep.
Significant rainfall is anticipated on June 29, July 3, and July 4, as low-pressure systems develop over the Bay of Bengal and Kutch region. In light of these developments, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority has urged the public to avoid travel near water bodies, follow safety protocols, and stay informed through official advisories.
Authorities continue to monitor the evolving situation closely to ensure timely responses and prevent flooding in vulnerable areas.
(inputs from IANS)