Rautahat Administration Alerts Riverside Residents as Kulekhani Reservoir Rises
Authorities in Rautahat have urged people living along the Bagmati River to move to safer locations after water levels at the Kulekhani reservoir increased, raising concerns about possible downstream flooding.
RAUTAHAT: The District Administration Office in Rautahat has urged residents living near the Bagmati River to remain alert and prepare to move to safer places following a rise in water levels at the Kulekhani reservoir in Makwanpur district.
The warning was issued after the reservoir reached 1,528.15 metres above sea level on Saturday afternoon. Officials expected the water level to increase further towards 1,529 metres.
According to Assistant Chief District Officer Hemraj Phuyal, authorities are concerned that the rising water level could force the Kulekhani hydropower project to open its main dam gates.
If the gates are opened, water flow could increase suddenly in the Sisneri stream and the Bagmati River, potentially putting riverside settlements at risk.
The Kulekhani-I Hydropower Project has also announced a warning system that includes sirens and SMS alerts when the reservoir reaches the specified threshold.
Residents have been advised to stay away from riverbanks and avoid activities such as fishing, collecting firewood and grazing livestock near river channels.
Authorities have also advised people against travelling at night along vulnerable river corridors.
The administration has asked communities to follow official announcements and remain prepared for evacuation if the situation worsens.