West Jaintia Hills issues flood alert as water level rises in Umrong Reservoir

Shillong, July 15: The West Jaintia Hills district administration has issued a flood advisory for residents living along the Kopili River and downstream areas following a rise in the water level of the Umrong Reservoir due to continuous rainfall.

Deputy Commissioner and District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) Chairman Abhinav Kumar Singh urged people to remain vigilant as the Khandong Dam may increase water discharge in a phased and regulated manner depending on the prevailing conditions.

According to the dam authorities, persistent rainfall over the Khandong catchment has led to a steady rise in the reservoir level. Officials said updates on the opening of the Umrong Dam gates and water releases will be communicated as and when necessary.

The authorities also clarified that the actual volume of water flowing downstream of Longku will depend on the discharge from the Lower Kopili Hydroelectric Project (LKHEP).

As a precautionary measure, the district administration has advised people residing along the banks of the Kopili River and in downstream areas to stay alert and avoid venturing close to the river, as water levels could rise rapidly following any increase in dam discharge.

The advisory comes amid persistent monsoon rainfall across Meghalaya, prompting authorities to closely monitor reservoir levels and river conditions.

Also read: NEC pumps ₹13.58 crore into Meghalaya projects, boosts healthcare, roads and clean energy

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