The gates of India’s Dhauliganga Hydropower Project dam in Uttarakhand will be opened for 48 hours to clear silt. Authorities in Kanchanpur are urging residents near the Mahakali River to stay alert.
The District Administration Office in Kanchanpur has announced that the dam gates will open at 1:00 am on Saturday, October 3, and close at 1:00 am on Monday, October 5.
This action is essential for silt removal, and the released water may raise the Mahakali River’s water level.
Residents living along the Mahakali River, as well as those traveling or working nearby, are advised to exercise caution during this period.
Authorities recommend that residents avoid entering the river or approaching its banks while the dam gates are open due to the expected rise in water levels.
The administration has also warned that the Mahakali River may stay elevated for some time after the dam gates close. Residents in downstream and riverside areas should remain vigilant even after the scheduled dam opening.
The Dhauliganga Hydropower Project is situated in Uttarakhand, India. Past experiences with dam gate openings have led to warnings in Nepal’s far-western districts due to potential impacts on the Mahakali River‘s water levels.
Local authorities are actively monitoring the situation and remind residents to adhere to safety guidelines and limit unnecessary movement near the river during this heightened risk period.