7 crest gates of Tungabhadra dam fail, triggering panic among locals in Karnataka

Seven crest gates of the Tungabhadra dam in Karnataka have become inoperative, causing widespread concern among residents and farmers in the region. According to the state Water Resources Department, the gates were not functioning, prompting authorities to rush an expert team to the site to assess the condition of the dam.

Speaking to local media in Koppal, Water Resources Minister Shivaraj Tangadagi said the seven gates had become inoperative and could not be lifted, creating an urgent need for repairs.

This revelation had sparked panic among communities across the three states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, where thousands of farmers rely on the dam for irrigation. In response, authorities increased the outflow from 40,000 cubic feet per second (cusecs) to nearly 90,000 cusecs within 24 hours and warned of a possible flood situation downstream.

The incident has revived fears among locals, especially after a similar event last year when Crest Gate No. 19 broke away after its chain snapped, sending the gate into the river. Farmers have criticised the Central Water Commission (CWC) for allegedly failing to take timely action despite repeated appeals, raising questions about the maintenance and safety of the structure.

With the monsoon season still active, farmers remain anxious, demanding long-term solutions to safeguard both the dam and their livelihoods.

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