Gates may be opened in July/August instead of September/October to let out excess water
Friday, 14 July 2023 | PNS | DEHRADUN
In latest Uttarakhand news, with above normal rainfall in Nainital in May and June this year, the water level of Naini Lake has reached danger level, making the district irrigation department officials to think of opening the sluice gates well in advance, in July/August instead of normal September/October. With above normal rainfall recorded in Nainital in May, June and the first fortnight of July, the water level has reached the normal level and as a result, the city may not face drinking water supply problem this year. Notably, the Naini Lake is the source of drinking water for the city. Earlier, 12 MLD water used to be supplied daily to the city. But later, with the water level of the lake considerably coming down due to deficit rainfall, the volume of supplied water was brought down to eight MLD following a high-level meeting where it was decided that a roster system would be followed in this matter.
As per the district irrigation officials, the water level of the lake was measured at 3 feet 9 inches on July 1 whereas on July 13, it was measured at 8 feet 2 inches. The water level of the lake can be measured up to 12 feet above the ground. Notably, when the level reaches 12 feet the sluice gates open automatically. But the department may have to open these gates I advance when the level reaches 11 feet to let out excess water.
