Alert issued over heavy outflow from KRS dam

Outflow from the Krishnaraja Sagar (KRS) dam in Mandya is expected to rise significantly — between 50,000 and 80,000 cusecs — due to heavy inflow following incessant rainfall in its catchment areas.

As of 8 a.m. on Thursday, the outflow stood at 33,076 cusecs, while the inflow was at 33,314 cusecs.

With inflow continuing to rise and the weather forecast predicting more heavy rain in Kodagu, dam authorities have issued a flood warning. Residents living along the banks of the Cauvery river have been advised to stay alert and move to safer locations if necessary.

Authorities also stated that the outflow may be increased at any time depending on the rainfall in the catchment areas.

Meanwhile, all tourist spots along the riverbanks in Mandya have been closed to visitors as a precautionary measure.

The famed Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, a major tourist attraction, has been closed and boating activities suspended for safety reasons. If water discharge increases further, there is a risk of flooding inside the sanctuary.

Similarly, Balamuri waterfalls in Srirangapatna taluk has been closed to the public. Other riverside locations where tourists usually gather have also been shut, and police personnel have been deployed to prevent people from going near the swollen river.