Heavy rains have pushed water levels at Peechi Dam to a critical point, prompting officials to schedule a controlled release through all four spillway shutters this Monday. The move aims to manage the reservoir’s swelling volume while keeping downstream communities safe.

Key facts

  • Four spillway shutters will open on August 31, 2026, at 11 a.m.
  • Initial raise of 2 inches (5 cm), followed by another 2 inches at 2 p.m.
  • Water will also flow into Manali River via KSEB hydel station.
  • River levels may rise up to 30 cm from current marks.

Why the release is necessary

Rainfall in the dam’s catchment areas shows no sign of letting up. A low-pressure system, cyclonic circulation, and active monsoon conditions are expected to bring more rain in the coming days. Without this controlled discharge, the reservoir could risk overtopping or structural stress.

Precautions for residents

The District Collector has issued a clear warning: people living along the Manali and Karuvannur rivers must stay alert. Water levels there could climb by as much as 30 centimeters once the dam’s gates are lifted. Though the rise is measured, it’s enough to change river behavior quickly.

What happens next

Officials will monitor weather patterns and water levels closely after the release. Further adjustments to the spillways aren’t ruled out if rain continues. For now, the focus is on executing this planned discharge smoothly and keeping communities informed.

Published - August 29, 2026 09:38 pm IST - Thrissur