Mysuru/ Mandya: For the first time in recent times, the Kabini reservoir in HD Kote in Mysuru district reached its near-full capacity in May. On Friday, the water level stood at 2,278.84 feet, just shy of the maximum storage capacity of 2,284 feet. Though the dam can reach its maximum level, the authorities are maintaining a safe buffer of 6 feet for safety purposes. This surpasses the previous May record set in 1980, when the reservoir reached 2,275 feet.The dam authorities have started to release 5,000 cusecs of floodwater as a precautionary measure. An official from the reservoir told TOI that in 1980, the level touched 2,275 feet in May. This year, it crossed that mark, and we are closely monitoring the situation. As of 6pm Friday, the level was 2,278.84 feet. It was only 2,260 feet last year at this time.The dramatic rise in water levels is attributed to continuous and heavy rainfall in Kabini River catchment area, mainly in Wayanad district in Kerala. The current inflow is over 18,000 cusecs, prompting concerns about potential overflow.Given the ongoing rainfall and rising inflows, the executive engineer of the Kabini Reservoir division issued a public advisory. Residents living near the riverbanks and low-lying areas have been urged to move to safer, elevated areas if needed, secure their belongings and livestock, and respond to the updates from local authorities.KRS touches 100 ft mark in MayThe Krishna Raja Sagar (KRS) dam also saw a significant surge in water levels. In just six days, the water level rose from 89.10 feet (May 25) to 100.10 feet (May 30). With current inflows averaging around 20,000 cusecs, officials anticipate the dam could reach its full capacity of 124.80 feet within 15–20 days, provided the rainfall continues. Last year during the same period, the water level at KRS stood at 83.85 feet, highlighting a remarkable increase due to consistent and widespread rain across the region this year.Authorities continue to monitor both reservoirs closely and are prepared for additional water releases if required.
