Ganol dam water release nears; villages warned

TURA, April 16: Villagers residing downstream along the Ganol river have been warned to remain cautious and alert as excess water from the Mini Ganol Hydel Power Dam may be released at any time in view of the fast-approaching monsoon and pre-monsoon showers.
In a statement, the Executive Engineer (C) of Ganol Civil Division-1, MePGCL, Tura, Rongkhon, said that due to heavy rainfall in the dam’s catchment areas, water levels may rise above the danger mark at the dam site, necessitating the release of water for the overall safety of the dam, its structures and to safeguard the electrical and sensitive electronic equipment installed at the site.
Regarding safety measures, the statement mentioned that MePGCL officials have conducted several awareness programmes, and people were sensitised through public announcements in areas near the Ganol river. Furthermore, a WhatsApp group was created involving MePGCL officials and villagers residing in the vicinity of the river.
Sirens have also been installed within a 16 km radius and at 5 km radius points at the Power House (Eden Bari) and the Chibragre Dam site, respectively, to alert the public whenever the dam gates are opened. The statement also urged the public to refrain from venturing near the riverbanks, warning of a possible sudden rise in water levels during the evacuation of floodwater from the reservoir.