HP: Water levels in Parbati river to rise as NHPC begins silt flushing at Pulga Dam; advisory issued
Kullu, July 11
The National Hydroelectric Power Corporation Parbati-II Power Station on Saturday issued a high-alert advisory for the general public and tourists following a significant increase in water discharge and the commencement of silt flushing at the Pulga Dam.
According to the authorities, the water level in the Parbati River is expected to rise sharply due to a combination of rising reservoir levels and planned maintenance activities.
The Power Station management informed that approximately 50 cumecs of water were diverted into the river from the Dam Radial Gates starting at 6:30 AM today. This, combined with the existing e-flow, has brought the total discharge into the Parbati River to approximately 225 cumecs. Officials warned that if the inflow continues to increase, additional water may be released through the radial gates.
Furthermore, NHPC Limited began the silt-flushing process at the Pulga Dam at 8:00 AM. "During the silt flushing process, there may be a sudden increase in the water level and flow of the Parbati River downstream of the dam. Therefore, all local residents and visitors are requested to stay away from the river and its banks for their own safety and avoid approaching the river during this period," the official notice stated.
The administration has urged the general public, tourists, and workers to maintain a safe distance from the riverbanks. Hotel owners, guest house managements, homestay operators, and taxi drivers have also been requested to caution tourists against approaching the water.
To ensure public safety, the NHPC has deployed multiple warning systems. "Hooters and sirens will be blown to alert the public. Additionally, public addressing vehicles will be deployed to warn people in nearby areas," the advisory added.
The advisory has been issued in the public interest, and NHPC has sought the cooperation of all stakeholders to ensure public safety.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good that they're issuing advisories early and using hooters + sirens. But 225 cumecs is no joke - that's like half a swimming pool per second! Local residents who rely on the river for fishing or farming must be worried. NHPC should also have a compensation plan ready in case agricultural land gets flooded.
😡 Every monsoon same drama! Why can't they schedule silt flushing during dry season? This is just poor planning by NHPC. And what about the environmental impact on aquatic life in Parbati? Fish eggs and small organisms get destroyed during these sudden water releases. Development at nature's cost again!
Been to Manali last month - the river was already flowing high. Now with 225 cumecs plus silt, the water will look like chocolate milk! 🍫 Tourists, especially adventure seekers who do river crossing or white water rafting, please stay off the river for next 2-3 days. Let the silt settle.
Important measure by NHPC and local administration. These power projects are critical for Himachal's economy and generate 800 MW for the national grid. But I wish they'd also share data about total silt accumulated - transparency would build trust. Also, local panchayats should have been consulted before finalizing the schedule. Still, safety first!
Kaafi chinta ki baat hai! (Very concerning!). We saw what happened in Uttarakhand when sudden water releases happened without warning. At least here they're using hooters and public address systems. But the timing during peak tourist season (July) is problematic - many families and school kids are visiting.
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