All 16 sluice gates of the Karnaphuli Hydropower Plant were opened by six inches early this morning (18 July) to reduce rising water pressure in Kaptai Lake following persistent rainfall in the upstream areas.
As of this morning, the water level in the lake stood at 104.92 feet, prompting the controlled release of water from the reservoir, officials said.
Mohammad Hasan, manager and superintendent engineer of the power plant, said the spillway gates will remain open until the reservoir’s water level drops to a safe operating level.
“The gates were opened by six inches at 11:20am today. Around 9,000 cusecs of water are being released, and the discharge will continue until the water level comes down to the desired level,” he added.
Power generation at the hydropower station remains normal despite the water release.
The plant is currently producing around 220 megawatts of electricity, with all five generating units in operation, according to plant officials.
The controlled discharge comes as heavy rainfall continues across parts of the Chattogram Hill Tracts and upstream catchment areas, increasing inflows into Kaptai Lake.
Authorities generally open the spillway gates during the monsoon to regulate the reservoir level and ensure the safety of the dam. People living along the downstream banks of the Karnaphuli River have been advised to remain cautious when water is released from the dam, as river levels may rise.
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