MAPUSA
With the monsoon regaining strength and heavy rainfall continuing across the catchment areas, the Tillari dam in Maharashtra has reached nearly 75 per cent of its storage capacity, prompting authorities to issue an alert for villages situated along the Tillari river.
The advisory is also significant for Goa, as any release of water from the reservoir could lead to a rise in the water level of the Chapora river, putting low-lying villages such as Camurlim and Nadora in Bardez on alert.
In a public notice issued by G D Buchde, the officer in charge of the Tillari reservoir, the Maharashtra authorities stated that persistent heavy rainfall since July 20 has resulted in a steady increase in the dam's water level. To maintain the reservoir at a safe operating level, controlled releases of water into the Tillari river will be undertaken.
The notice further stated that apart from the regulated discharge from the reservoir, runoff from the surrounding catchment areas outside the dam will also flow into the Tillari river due to the continuing heavy rains, causing the river's water level to rise further.
The authorities have warned that from July 24 onwards, the water level in the Tillari river could increase at any time and have advised residents living along the riverbanks to remain vigilant. People have been strictly advised against entering the river, as sudden surges in water levels are possible.
Residents of villages situated along the river have also been urged not to venture into the river for activities such as bathing, washing clothes or allowing livestock to graze or cross through the river, particularly during the night, when sudden rises in water levels may be difficult to detect.
The advisory assumes added significance for Goa, where increased discharge from the Tillari reservoir can result in a corresponding rise in the water level of the Chapora river.
Authorities and residents in vulnerable riverside villages, including Camurlim and Revora in Bardez, are expected to closely monitor the situation over the coming days as rainfall continues across the region.
