Tungabhadra dam gate chain snaps, triggering major water release

This incident marks the first major issue at the Tungabhadra Dam in its 70-year history.

A gate at the Tungabhadra Dam in Karnataka was washed away last night following the snapping of a chain link, prompting authorities to sound a flood alert downstream in Koppal district. In an effort to reduce pressure on the damaged gate, authorities quickly opened all but five of the dam’s gates, with the goal of lowering the reservoir's water level to facilitate repairs on Gate Number 19.

To carry out the necessary repairs, the water level in the reservoir must be reduced from its current 105 TMC to between 55 and 65 TMC, according to sources in the water resources department, as reported by PTI.

The incident has also led to a flood alert in neighboring Andhra Pradesh, with residents living along the banks of the Krishna River being urged to remain vigilant and avoid crossing canals and streams.

At present, the dam is discharging 89,000 cusecs of water, according to reports. Koppal district in-charge Minister Shivaraj Tangadagi emphasized the urgency of emptying the dam, stating that at least 60 to 65 TMC of water may need to be released to resolve the issue. He noted that the problem could be mitigated once 20 feet of water is released from the reservoir.

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar is en route to Koppal to oversee the situation. Although there is currently no imminent threat of flooding, authorities have cautioned the public against venturing near the Tungabhadra River due to the increased discharge from the dam.