NHPC raises water release from Parbati-II Dam, renews public advisory
Kullu, July 21
Shimla, July 21: NHPC on Monday evening issued a fresh advisory announcing a further increase in water discharge from the Pulga Dam of the 800 MW Parbati-II Hydroelectric Power Station in Kullu district, urging residents and tourists to stay away from the Parbati River as the reservoir level continues to rise due to heavy inflows.
According to NHPC, an additional 28 cumecs of water will be released through the radial gates of the Pulga Dam from 5:20 pm on July 21. With the existing discharge of about 66 cumecs, the total flow into the Parbati River will increase to approximately 94 cumecs.
The latest advisory follows an earlier release made during the afternoon and reflects the continuous rise in the reservoir level. NHPC said that if inflows increase further, additional water may be released through the dam’s radial gates, leading to a further rise in the river’s water level.
The corporation has appealed to local residents, tourists, workers and visitors to maintain a safe distance from the Parbati River and refrain from venturing near its banks during the water release. Owners and managers of hotels, guest houses, homestays, camps and taxi operators have also been requested to advise tourists to avoid the riverfront.
As part of the safety measures, hooters and sirens will be sounded before the release of water, while public announcement vehicles will be deployed in nearby areas to alert people. NHPC has sought the cooperation of the public in ensuring safety during the operation.
The advisory comes amid the ongoing monsoon season, when fluctuating reservoir levels and increased inflows often necessitate controlled water releases from hydropower projects. Authorities have urged people to remain vigilant, strictly follow official advisories and avoid rivers, streams and other vulnerable locations where water levels can rise suddenly.
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