Idukki Reservoir Storage Surpasses 70%

Quick Summary

• The water level in the Idukki reservoir stood at 2,377.54 ft on Saturday, equivalent to 71.34% of its storage capacity. Last year on the same day, it was 2,368.04 ft (62.10%).
• Recent heavy rainfall contributed to a 76.2 mm increase in catchment area rain within the past 24 hours.
• Current levels are close to the “blue alert” set by Central Water Commission guidelines at 2,378.81 ft; further thresholds include:

– Orange alert: 2,384.81 ft
– Red alert: 2,385.81 ft
– Upper rule curve until August 20: 2,386.81 ft

• Power generation at Moolamattom plant continues moderately with an output of 8.403 mu electricity recorded Friday.
• Storage across major Kerala hydel dams reached an average of 77% as of Saturday; key dam capacities include Sholayar (100%), Lower Periyar (99%), and Neriamangalam (95%).

Mullaperiyar Reservoir:

• The current water level is 133.6 ft, higher then last year’s same-day reading of 129.30 ft; maximum permissible limit fixed by Supreme Court is 142 ft.

Road Safety Alert:

• District Collector imposed a ban on night travel and roadside parking along Gap Road stretch of Kochi-Dhanushkodi NH due to potential landslip risks.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The rising water levels in Kerala’s reservoirs signal both opportunities and challenges for local governance and resource management amid heavy monsoon rains this week-particularly regarding power generation capacity enhancement from hydropower stations like Moolamattom plant​. While increased reservoir capacities offer relief for energy demand in South india​​ they also bring pressing safety oversights over-forced evacuation triggers risks perhaps overwhelm preventive steps . ​