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Himachal: Flood risk rises in Kullu as hydropower projects schedule water releases
Shashi Bhushan Purohit
Kullu (Himachal Pradesh), August 11, 2026: Continuous rainfall and rising inflows into reservoirs have increased the risk of a sudden rise in water levels in rivers and streams across Kullu Valley. Hydropower projects have issued advisories regarding scheduled water releases and urged residents, tourists and workers to stay away from riverbanks.
Parbati Power Station-2, an 800 MW project, has reported that the water level in its reservoir is rising steadily amid increased inflows. According to the advisory, around 30 cumec of water will be released from Pulga Dam into the Parbati River at 10:30 am on August 11, followed by another release of around 30 cumec at 10:50 am.
With e-flow and radial gate discharge included, the total flow into the Parvati River could reach approximately 90 cumec (100 cusecs). The project has warned that additional water may be released through the dam's radial gates if inflows increase further, potentially causing a sudden rise in the river's water level.
Controlled flushing operation on August 12
Meanwhile, AD Hydro Power Limited (ADHPL), Manali, has issued a separate notice regarding a controlled flushing operation at the Allen drain.
The operation is scheduled for August 12 from 11 am to 2 pm, during which controlled flushing of the under-sluice and chambers will be carried out. Around 16 cumec of water will initially be released, with the discharge gradually increased during the operation.
Tourists, locals advised to stay away from riverbanks
The hydropower projects have appealed to the public, tourists, workers and others to maintain a safe distance from rivers and streams during the water releases.
Hotel, guesthouse, homestay and campground operators, as well as taxi operators, have been asked to inform tourists about the scheduled releases and caution them against approaching riverbanks.
Parbati Power Station-2 said hooters and sirens will be used to alert people, while announcement vehicles will also be deployed in surrounding areas.
The project management has stressed that further water releases may be required if reservoir inflows increase. Residents and tourists have therefore been advised not to approach riverbanks to observe rising water levels and to strictly follow warnings issued by the administration and project authorities.
With heavy rainfall continuing during the monsoon, water levels in rivers and streams can rise rapidly and without warning. Authorities have urged people to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary risks near water bodies.