To manage the rising water levels of Kaptai Dam, 16 spillway gates at the Kaptai Karnaphuli Hydroelectric Power Station were opened by 6 inches each at 11:20 am today. This action discharges approximately 9,000 cusecs of water per second into the Karnaphuli River. The water level reached 104.08 feet MSL at 10:00 AM, nearing the maximum retention capacity of 109 feet MSL. The decision was prompted by increased inflow from continuous rainfall and upstream hill torrents.
Operational Details and Safety Measures
Mahmud Hasan, Engineer and Manager of the Karnaphuli Hydroelectric Power Station, confirmed that five units of the power station remain operational, generating an average of 222 megawatts of electricity. Additionally, approximately 32,000 cusecs of water per second is being discharged through the turbines. Authorities have advised residents in low-lying areas along the Karnaphuli River to remain vigilant, as the situation is being continuously monitored.
Administrative Oversight and Community Impact
Rangamati Deputy Commissioner Nazma Ashrafi observed the water discharge process through the sluice gates. Additional officials, including Additional Deputy Commissioners Md. Ruhul Amin and Md. Alamgir Hossain, Kaptai Upazila Executive Officer Rayhanul Islam, and representatives from Kaptai PDB and Rangamati District Administration, were present to oversee the operation. The community is urged to stay alert and follow any further instructions from local authorities.
