Rangamati, Aug 28 (V7N) - The water level at Kaptai Lake has reached its maximum limit, measuring 108.92 MSL (Mean Sea Level), which is dangerously close to its peak capacity. To manage this situation, 16 spillways of the Kaptai Dam have been opened by 1.5 feet, releasing 30,000 cubic feet of water per second from the lake. Additionally, 32,000 cubic feet of water per second is being discharged for power generation.

On Monday afternoon, the water level was recorded at 108.84 MSL, with the lake’s maximum capacity being 109 MSL.

On Tuesday, due to heavy mountain runoff, the water level at Kaptai Lake rose rapidly, surpassing the danger level and reaching a critical point. Consequently, from Tuesday afternoon, 16 spillways have been used to release 30,000 cubic feet of water per second.

The rise in water level has severely impacted around 100,000 people living in low-lying areas, leaving them stranded and facing significant hardship. Residents in the district headquarters and six other upazilas have been affected, with around 6,000 hectares of agricultural land submerged. This situation has caused extreme distress for about 15,000 farmers. Reports indicate that affected families have yet to receive necessary relief supplies.

On Tuesday night, the Kaptai Hydro-Electric Authority confirmed that the spillways have been opened by 1.5 feet to expedite water release.

According to ATM Abduz Zahir, Manager of the Kaptai Hydroelectric Plant, the gates have been opened by 1.5 feet, allowing for the discharge of 30,000 cubic feet of water per second. Additionally, with five units of the power plant operational, 220 megawatts of electricity is being produced, resulting in a discharge of 32,000 cubic feet of water per second.

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