Mysuru, 01 August (H.S.): A sharp increase in inflow into the Kabini reservoir following heavy rainfall in its catchment areas has raised hopes of improved water availability amid the continuing Cauvery water-sharing dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
Incessant rain in Kerala, which accounts for a significant portion of the Kabini catchment, pushed inflow into the reservoir in H.D. Kote taluk of Mysuru district to around 15,500 cusecs on Saturday morning.
The increased inflow has taken the reservoir level to 2,280.08 feet, just about four feet below its full reservoir level of 2,284 feet.
With the reservoir filling up rapidly, authorities are likely to release between 8,000 and 10,000 cusecs into the Kabini river. Officials said the discharge could be increased further if heavy inflows continue in the coming days.
The Kabini Reservoir Division has issued a flood alert for people living along downstream stretches of the river. Residents have been advised to remain cautious, shift to safer locations if required and take necessary measures to protect livestock and property.
Meanwhile, the southwest monsoon has strengthened considerably in neighbouring Kodagu district, which recorded an average rainfall of 56.79 mm during the last 24 hours.
Heavy rainfall in the catchment areas also boosted inflow into the Harangi reservoir to 9,896 cusecs on Saturday. Authorities consequently released 10,058 cusecs into the Harangi river.
Several parts of Kodagu reported intense rainfall. Shanthalli recorded 180 mm, while Bhagamandala received 125.6 mm since Friday. The Harangi dam area registered 39.6 mm of rainfall.
The renewed monsoon activity also caused disruptions in parts of the district. A landslide at 2nd Monnangeri village affected road traffic, while a portion of a house collapsed at Spatika Layout in Madikeri town following the heavy showers.
---------------
Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
