Gayatri River dam shutters opened to manage heavy rainfall discharge

The recent opening of the check dam shutters on the Gayatri River in Palakkad is a significant event driven by the heavy rainfall in the region. The increased water flow has necessitated the release of water from the dam to manage reservoir levels and prevent overflow, prompting local authorities to issue flood alerts and take precautionary measures to safeguard downstream areas.

Gayatri River and Meenkara Dam

The Gayatri River, a tributary of the Bharathapuzha, plays a vital role as a water source in the Palakkad district. The Meenkara Dam, built across the Gayatri River at Muthalamada near Kollengode, is a significant part of the Gayatri Irrigation Project. Completed in 1964, this earthen dam with masonry spillway sections serves various functions, including providing irrigation and drinking water to nearby agricultural regions such as Chittoor, Nemmara, and Alathur in Palakkad, as well as Vadakkancherry in Thrissur district.

Impact of Heavy Rainfall and Dam Water Release

Due to recent heavy monsoon rains, the water level in the Meenkara reservoir and the associated Gayatri River system has risen substantially. To maintain the structural safety of the dam and prevent flooding upstream, the shutters of the check dam have been opened to release excess water downstream. This controlled release is essential to avoid dam overtopping and potential damage.

However, the increased water discharge has raised concerns about flooding in downstream villages and agricultural lands. Authorities have issued warnings and are monitoring the situation closely to manage any flood risks. Residents in low-lying areas are advised to stay alert and follow instructions from local officials.

Importance of the Dam and Water Management

The Meenkara Dam, along with the larger Gayatri Irrigation Project, plays a crucial role in sustaining the agrarian economy of Palakkad district by ensuring water supply during dry periods and supporting local livelihoods. The recent release of water emphasizes the growing challenges of managing water resources in the face of shifting weather patterns and increasingly intense rainfall.

Proper dam management such as the timely opening of shutters is essential to strike a balance between water storage and flood prevention. This incident highlights the need for ongoing monitoring, regular maintenance, and community awareness to reduce flood risks while preserving the benefits of irrigation.

Read more at: https://www.manoramaonline.com/district-news/palakkad/2025/05/26/gayatri-river-dam-water-release.html