In a strategic response to the heavy inflows resulting from recent monsoon rains, the irrigation department officials of Andhra Pradesh opened three gates of the Srisailam Dam. This measure was crucial as the water levels in the dam neared the Full Reservoir Level (FRL) of 885 feet, reaching 881.60 feet. To manage this, gates numbered five, six, and seven were lifted by 10 feet, releasing approximately 80,000 cusecs of water downstream to the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam.

The opening of the gates was a significant event, drawing a large number of tourists to the Srisailam project area. Visitors flocked to witness the dramatic spectacle of the water being released, turning the site into a temporary tourist hotspot.

The decision to open the gates was made by State Irrigation Minister Ambati Rambabu, alongside Nandyal MP Pocha Brahmananda Reddy, Srisailam MLA Shilpa Chakrapani Reddy, and Nandyal District Collector Manazir Jeelani. The officials performed traditional rituals, including pujas and offering a saree to the water, before commencing the release.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for continued heavy rainfall in the region, predicting isolated heavy downpours and thunderstorms over north coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, and south coastal Andhra Pradesh. This forecast is expected to persist for several days, further influencing water management decisions in the area.

The event underscores the importance of diligent water management, especially in areas susceptible to heavy monsoon rains. It also highlights the dual role of the Srisailam Dam as both a crucial infrastructure for water regulation and a point of interest for tourism. The successful management of the situation ensured both safety and community engagement, balancing operational needs with cultural practices.

The influx of tourists, drawn by the opportunity to witness the water release, also underscores the dam’s significance beyond its primary functional role. As the region continues to navigate the monsoon season, effective water management remains paramount in preventing potential flooding and ensuring the safety and well-being of communities downstream.

In conclusion, the opening of the Srisailam Dam gates not only managed rising water levels but also turned into a remarkable event that drew significant public interest, reflecting the dam’s multifaceted importance in the region.

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