Mandi: All Five Gates of Pandoh Dam Opened Again, 40,000 Cusecs of Water Being Released

Mandi, July 30:
All five gates of the Pandoh Dam on the Beas River have been opened once again. The decision comes after heavy rainfall in the Kullu-Manali region on Tuesday night, which led to a significant rise in the water level of the Beas River. On Wednesday morning, the inflow at Pandoh Dam was recorded at approximately 45,000 cusecs. In response, the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) took precautionary measures by opening all five gates and releasing nearly 40,000 cusecs of water downstream, causing a renewed increase in the river’s water level.

Currently, the water level at the dam stands at around 2,922 feet—well below the danger mark of 2,941 feet.

Deputy Commissioner of Mandi, Apoorva Devgan, stated that the BBMB has been instructed to alert the public with sirens before releasing water, in accordance with district administration guidelines. These protocols were duly followed during the release on the night of June 30 as well, which helped the administration maintain control over the situation. He urged both tourists and local residents to stay away from riverbanks and drains, avoid believing in rumors, and strictly follow advisories issued by the administration and the meteorological department.

When asked about the current situation, BBMB Pandoh Executive Engineer Chandramani Sharma assured that everything remains under control and there is no cause for panic. Water levels are being closely monitored, and emergency teams are on alert. Additionally, the Baggi tunnel—which has a maximum capacity of 9,000 cusecs—is currently diverting 6,000 cusecs to the Dehar Power House.