Himachal floods: Malana Dam overflows amid heavy rain

The situation in Kullu and Mandi districts of Himachal Pradesh is becoming increasingly concerning due to heavy rainfall and flooding. The 100 MW Malana II hydroelectric project in Kullu has faced difficulties as its flood gates have jammed, leading to overflowing of the dam.

The local authorities are working hard to control the water flow, but opening the gates has proven to be a challenge due to heavy silt influx.

As a result of the overflowing Malana dam, panic has spread in the area, and people residing along the Beas River in Kullu and Mandi districts are on high alert.

The government has issued an advisory urging residents to stay away from the banks of the Parvati River, and locals have been advised to prepare for possible evacuations. Teams of police and administration are on alert, continuously monitoring the situation in the low-lying areas of Parvati Valley.

Kullu is one of the worst affected areas in Himachal Pradesh, with 120 roads remaining disconnected, and restoration work is underway in several places.

The Malana dam, located in the village of Malana near Kasol in Parvati Valley, is contributing to the rising water level in the Parvati River, which eventually merges with the Beas River at Bhuntar in Kullu.

The connectivity crisis in Himachal Pradesh is severe, with around 600 roads, including National Highways, remaining closed. Shimla, Kullu, Chamba, and Mandi are among the worst-hit regions with road closures.

Authorities in Kullu, led by Deputy Commissioner Ashutosh Garg, are taking necessary precautions and alerting residents about the potential risks. They are also deploying teams to prepare for evacuations if the situation worsens. Experts are already working on fixing the dam's technical issues to enable the gates to be opened, allowing the controlled release of water.

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