The irrigation department opened the gates of Prakasam Barrage on Sunday to release surplus water into the Krishna River following fresh rains in local catchment areas that pushed inflows to approximately 5,000 cusecs.
Water Level and Discharge Details
Officials reported that the barrage was maintaining a water level of 12 feet and managing the increased inflows through canal diversions and downstream release. Of the total inflow, nearly 2,000 cusecs was diverted into irrigation canals, while the remaining surplus water was released downstream through the barrage gates. The discharge, estimated between 2,000 and 3,000 cusecs, was scheduled from 9 am to 10 am, according to the irrigation department.
Cause of Inflow Increase
Executive engineer and river conservator Ravi Kiran R stated that the rise in inflows was linked to recent rainfall in the catchment areas. Authorities issued an alert to concerned officials and advised fishermen, workers at sand reaches, and people residing or visiting areas along the Krishna riverbanks to exercise caution.
Precautionary Measures
The department confirmed that precautionary measures had been initiated on both the upstream and downstream sides of the barrage to prevent any untoward incidents. Officials added that the volume of discharge could vary depending on further inflows received and water utilisation requirements. Irrigation authorities are closely monitoring rainfall activity and inflow trends and will regulate releases accordingly.
