Heavy Showers Prompt Opening of Kanjirappuzha Dam Spillway Shutter
Palakkad district has been experiencing intense rainfall over the past several days, particularly in the catchment regions feeding the Kanjirappuzha Dam. As a result, authorities raised the first of the dam’s three spillway shutters by 5 cm at 2 PM on Friday, June 13, 2025, to regulate the rising water level in the reservoir. This precautionary move was taken after the reservoir’s water level reached 94.40 metres, edging close to its maximum capacity of 97.5 metres.
Why the Shutter Was Opened
The dam’s shutters are typically opened once the water level crosses the 93-metre mark. Continuous heavy rainfall in the catchment areas, especially through the Irumbakachola and Palakkayam regions, has significantly increased the inflow. As a result, the opening of the shutter is expected to raise the water level in the downstream river by up to 5 cm, prompting authorities to advise those living along the riverbanks to remain vigilant.
All three shutters of the Kanjirappuzha Dam were previously opened briefly on May 31, 2025, following a similar bout of heavy rains, but were closed after two days as the inflow subsided. Officials have indicated that if the inflow continues to rise, all three shutters may be opened again. Such measures are standard protocol to prevent overflow and ensure the structural safety of the dam, as well as to protect downstream communities.
About Kanjirappuzha Dam
The Kanjirappuzha Dam is a major irrigation project in Palakkad, with a gross storage capacity of 70.83 million cubic meters and a catchment area of 7,000 hectares. The dam plays a crucial role in irrigating thousands of hectares in Palakkad, Mannarkkad, and Ottappalam, and also supports commercial fisheries and tourism. Its design and operation include robust safety protocols to manage flood risks during the monsoon season.
Residents along the downstream river are urged to stay alert for rising water levels and follow any advisories from local authorities. This situation underscores the importance of effective dam management and timely communication during Kerala’s monsoon season.
