Himachal dams near danger mark even before full onset of monsoon, find out the reason
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Most of the dam reservoirs in Himachal Pradesh are nearing capacity even before the onset of monsoon rains, primarily due to intense heat causing rapid glacier melt.
Among the dams, only Bhakra and Pong have significant space left, with their reservoirs still 31 and 28 metres below full capacity, respectively. However, these too are expected to fill soon, prompting warnings about potential water release ahead of the rains.
The Sutlej Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) has already issued an alert regarding the rising levels of the Nathpa Dam on the Sutlej, advising the public to avoid the riverbanks.
The water level of the Nathpa reservoir is currently at 1,493 metres, just 2.5 metres below its danger level of 1,495.5 metres. Similarly, the Karcham dam reservoir has reached 1,809 metres, only three metres shy of its danger level of 1,812 metres. The Chamera-2 project reservoir has filled up to 1,157 metres, with its danger level set at 1,162 metres, leaving just five metres of space.
The pre-monsoon filling of these dams is beneficial for meeting the electricity and water needs of neighbouring states like Punjab and Haryana.
The water from Himachal’s rivers plays a crucial role in supporting agriculture in North India, including states such as Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Rajasthan. However, there is also a risk of potential flooding during heavy monsoon rains if the water levels continue to rise.
Himachal has experienced record-breaking heat this year, accelerating glacier melt and contributing to the high water levels. The Himachal Environment Science and Technology Department is currently studying the impact of glacier melt, with a report expected soon.
The Bhakra Dam, managed by the Bhakra Beas Management Board, still has 31.47 metres of capacity remaining, with its reservoir level at 512.07 metres out of a potential 515.11 metres. Similarly, the Pong Dam reservoir is about 28 metres below capacity, currently at 398.102 metres out of a total capacity of 423.67 metres.
Despite the early monsoon arrival, only Shimla and Solan have received significant rainfall so far. Nonetheless, the reservoirs are nearly full, and it is anticipated that Bhakra and Pong dams will reach full capacity during the rainy season.
