Kulekhani Reservoir Swells, Caution Urged

Kathmandu: The water level in the Kulekhani (Indrasarovar) reservoir has risen sharply following overnight rainfall, prompting authorities to urge residents in downstream areas to remain alert amid concerns over the potential risk from rapidly increasing water levels.

Madan Timsina, Deputy Executive Director of the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), said the reservoir’s water level had been increasing by around 1 to 2 centimeters per hour until Saturday night. In response to the rising inflow, the Kulekhani project has been operating at full capacity to release excess water from the reservoir.

However, the rate of increase accelerated significantly after overnight rainfall. The water level reached 1,525.37 meters by 6:00 AM Sunday, while the reservoir has a maximum storage level of 1,530 meters.

According to NEA data, the water level stood at 1,524.09 meters at 10:00 PM Saturday and rose to 1,524.13 meters by midnight. It then climbed to 1,524.36 meters at 2:00 AM, 1,524.63 meters at 3:00 AM, 1,524.78 meters at 3:30 AM, 1,525.11 meters at 5:00 AM and 1,525.16 meters at 5:08 AM.

Rainfall in the reservoir’s catchment area is currently recorded at around 11 millimeters per hour, while the reservoir level is rising by approximately 22 to 23 centimeters per hour, according to Timsina.

Authorities have urged people living in downstream settlements to exercise caution, warning that the risk could increase if the water level continues to rise at the current pace.

Preparations have been made to activate sirens and send SMS alerts to downstream residents depending on the reservoir’s condition. Timsina said relevant management and technical teams are also discussing the possibility of a controlled release of water by opening the dam gates if the rapid rise continues.

Authorities have advised downstream communities to remain vigilant and follow official safety instructions.