Pune: The Khadakwasla cluster dams, including the Khadakwasla, Panshet, Varasgaon, and Temghar dams, has reached 90% of its water storage capacity, prompting an alert for residents living near riverbanks.

With an orange alert for rainfall in catchment areas and Pune district currently in place, the Irrigation Department advises citizens to remain cautious as the dams continue to fill.

As of now, the combined water storage in the dams stands at 26.18 TMC, nearly 90% of their capacity. Significant rainfalls have been recorded, and ongoing water discharges are necessary to manage the rising levels.

This year, the highest discharge recorded was 35,000 cusecs, which was solely from the Khadakwasla dam. At that time, the Panshet, Varasgaon, and Temghar dams had less than 70% capacity.

Now, with these dams over 90% full, excess rainwater will need to be released into the river to maintain 100% levels in the dams, potentially resulting in higher discharges. The Irrigation Department has indicated this possibility.

This year has been marked as a year of excessive rainfall, according to the India Meteorological Department and experts. Given this context, the Panshet, Varasgaon, and Temghar dams are around 90% full, and the dam chain’s water storage is also at 90%.

If the dam's water storage is at 100% or less, excess rainwater will be released into the river. Therefore, an alert has been issued for residents living along the riverbanks.

Shweta Kurhade, Executive Engineer, Khadakwasla Irrigation Department said, "As per the prevailing regulations of the Water Resources Department, water storage in the Panshet, Varasgaon, Temghar, and Khadakwasla dams will be managed accordingly.

Due to the 90% water storage in the dam chain, coordination with district administration, the municipal corporation, and the Irrigation Department is ongoing regarding water discharge. Residents near the dams and riverbanks are advised to follow the instructions issued by the district administration."