Dam Water Released in Tiruvannamalai After Steady Rains

Authorities released water from the Shenbagathoppu dam in Tiruvannamalai after continuous rain filled the reservoir to around 80 percent of its total capacity. Water Resources Department officials stated that about 100 cusecs of water per second was let out because the dam reached 56.24 ft against its total capacity of 62.32 ft. Assistant Engineer A. Raja Ganapathy explained that safety norms require releasing excess rainwater when a dam nears 80 percent capacity, especially as the Jawadhu Hills catchment area continues to receive steady rain.

Warnings And Recharge

Tiruvannamalai Collector Vandhana Garg warned residents living along the Kamandalam Naganathi river in Cheyyar, Arani, Vandavasi, and Polur towns not to cross the waterbody due to rising water flow. The discharged water flows into 48 local tanks across Polur, Arani, Arcot, Cheyyar, and Vandavasi through four check dams, including Alliyabhad and Karnakur, which helps recharge the groundwater table in nearby villages. Meanwhile, rain also lashed parts of Vellore, Ranipet, Tiruvannamalai, and Tirupattur districts on Saturday.

Context

Releasing water from reservoirs during heavy seasonal rains is a standard safety step to protect dam structures from overflowing or damage. Such regulated discharges often feed local river systems and village tanks, helping replenish groundwater levels before drier months arrive.