This morning, all 16 gates of the Kaptai Dam were opened as the water level at the Karnaphuli Hydro Power Station approached the danger level due to continuous rainfall and an influx of upstream water. The gates were opened at 8:00 am to release 9,000 cusecs of water, as confirmed by ATM Abduj Jaher, the manager of the Karnafuli Hydropower Station.
Despite the precautionary measure, there is currently no immediate risk of flooding in the adjacent areas. “The hydropower plant can manage water levels up to 109 feet. If the level crosses this threshold, it poses risks of flooding in nearby areas,” said Jaher in a conversation with Prothom Alo earlier today. He further assured that the current water release is within safe limits and does not pose any immediate danger. “In the past, more water has been released without leading to any abnormal situations,” he added.
The decision to release water was made to prevent potential flooding in Baghaichari Upazila. “If the water was not released now, there would have been a risk of flooding everything in Baghaichari,” Jaher explained.
Local residents and sources from the power plant reported that Kaptai Lake has risen by at least 9 feet in the past five days due to persistent rainfall and heavy inflows of water from the surrounding hills.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to manage water levels and prevent any risk of flooding in the future. Residents are advised to stay updated on further announcements.