Water level rises, 16 Kaptai dam gates to be partially opened Saturday

The authorities have decided to partially open 16 spillway gates of the Kaptai dam in Rangamati on Saturday to release water from the Kaptai Lake, following a rise in water levels. The move is aimed at managing upstream and downstream water flow and controlling potential flood situations.

According to a notice signed by Mahmud Hasan, Manager of the Karnaphuli Hydroelectric Power Station, the lake's water level was recorded at 103.91 feet MSL at 7:00 pm on Thursday, July 16, against its maximum holding capacity of 109 feet MSL.

Due to recent heavy rainfall and increased inflow from upstream, the gates may be opened by 6 inches each at any time after 11:00 am on Saturday. This will initially release approximately 9,000 cusecs of water per second into the Karnaphuli river.

Mahmud Hasan said the water level, upstream flow and rainfall conditions are being constantly monitored. The timing of the gate opening may change depending on the situation, and more gates may be opened in phases if water discharge needs to be increased.

Currently, five units of the Kaptai power station are operational, discharging about 32,000 cusecs of water per second while generating electricity.

Authorities have advised residents of low-lying areas along the Karnaphuli river to remain vigilant. The Bangladesh Water Development Board will decide on further actions after monitoring the situation.