Authorities at the Salal Hydroelectric Power Station in Reasi district, Jammu & Kashmir, recently opened multiple spillway gates to release excess water as rainfall-induced flooding elevated the Chenab River levels. Videos from ANI capture the dramatic release on June 29, 2025.
Location & Background
- Salal Dam is a run-of-the-river hydropower project on the Chenab River. Completed in 1987, it features 12 ogee-type spillways with a total capacity of approximately 22,427 m³/s.
- It operates under the Indus Waters Treaty, alongside nearby projects like the Baglihar Dam, balancing electricity generation and flood control.
Trigger: Heavy Rainfall & Rising River Levels
- Recent heavy monsoon rains in Jammu & Kashmir caused a sustained rise in the Chenab’s water levels, prompting officials to act to prevent a potential flood downstream .
- The Baglihar hydropower project already experienced overflow, further raising water flow concerns.
Safety Measures & Local Advisory
- Officials have urged residents to avoid riverbanks and heed all safety advisories.
- Deputy Inspector General Shridhar Patil warned of the dangerous, unpredictable water levels and similarly cautioned about past deadly incidents in Doda district.
Engineering Response
- Opening sluice gates is a key flood mitigation strategy—it reduces reservoir pressure and lowers downstream surge risk.
- It also aids in flushing sediment, maintaining operational efficiency, especially critical during the monsoon season.
- Salal’s six bottom sluices and additional spillways are regularly put to use—monthly in monsoon—to clear silt accumulation
Broader Implications
- The move comes just weeks after India reopened Salal’s gates in early May as part of Operation Sindoor, with some geopolitical context tied to the Indus Waters Treaty suspension.
- While rain-driven flooding is routine, strategic gate control has recently held diplomatic significance between India and Pakistan.
Summary
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| What | Salal Dam sluice gates opened to release excess water |
| Why | Heavy rainfall raised Chenab levels; flood risk mitigated |
| Safety | Locals advised to stay clear of riverbanks |
| Historic Context | Regular operation enhanced by climate patterns; notable geopolitical backdrop |
The careful, timely release helped avoid potential flooding while ensuring the dam’s long-term functioning. Local authorities continue to monitor water levels and issue advisories as needed. For downstream communities, vigilance and adherence to safety alerts remains crucial.
Let me know if you’d like rainfall data, river level trends, or deeper insight into Salal’s role under the Indus Waters Treaty.
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