Rangamati, Jul 17(V7N)- Although the flood situation in Rangamati has improved, authorities have warned that the risk of landslides remains high. At the same time, preparations are underway to release water from the Kaptai Dam as the water level in Kaptai Lake continues to rise rapidly.
According to officials, the water level in Kaptai Lake reached 103.91 feet MSL as of Friday morning. Due to the possibility of further rainfall in the upstream areas, the authorities may open all 16 spillway gates of the Kaptai Dam by 6 inches after 11:00 am on Saturday, initially releasing around 9,000 cusecs of water. The number of gates and the volume of discharge will be adjusted depending on the evolving situation.
At present, approximately 32,000 cusecs of water are being released into the Karnaphuli River through the dam's five generating units for electricity production.
Meanwhile, all five units of the Kaptai Karnaphuli Hydropower Station, the country's only hydroelectric power plant, are now fully operational. With the rising water level in the lake, electricity generation has increased to 206 megawatts, the highest output recorded this year. Officials said power generation could increase further if rainfall continues.
The recent floods and landslides have caused widespread damage to roads, agricultural land and residential areas across different parts of Rangamati. Relief distribution and rehabilitation efforts are continuing, with the district administration, Bangladesh Army, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and various volunteer organizations actively engaged in rescue and relief operations.
Authorities have urged residents living at the foothills to remain in safe shelters and advised people residing along the banks of the Karnaphuli River to stay alert due to the possibility of rising water levels following the planned release from the Kaptai Dam.
END/SMA/AJ
