Rangamati, August 4 (V7N) – Continuous heavy rainfall over the past several days, coupled with a strong upstream flow from the hilly regions near the Indian border, has led to a rapid rise in the water level of Kaptai Lake. On Sunday morning, the lake’s water level reached 106.84 feet Mean Sea Level (MSL), approaching the danger threshold of 107 feet.

According to Mahmud Hasan, Executive Engineer and Manager of the Kaptai Hydropower Station (KAPABICO), the water level is increasing steadily. If it exceeds 108 feet MSL, the authority may be forced to open the spillway gates of the power station to release excess water into the Karnaphuli River.

The full capacity of Kaptai Lake is 109 feet MSL. Once the water crosses 108 feet, the facility's 16 sluice gates may be opened in phases to manage the pressure. However, any such action would be taken only after an official meeting and with approval from the relevant authorities, with the public notified accordingly.

Currently, all five generating units of the Kaptai Hydropower Station are operational. As of 9:00 a.m. Sunday, the plant produced a total of 219 megawatts of electricity:
– Units 1 and 2 generated 46 MW each (92 MW combined)
– Unit 3 produced 47 MW
– Units 4 and 5 generated 40 MW each (80 MW combined)

The situation is being monitored closely by plant authorities. If the rain continues and upstream inflow remains high, communities downstream of the Karnaphuli River may face potential flood risks in the event of spillway release. Local authorities have been advised to remain alert.

END/AMR/SMA/