Kathmandu: Kulekhani-I Hydropower Center has intensified measures ranging from maintaining lower reservoir water levels to strengthening early warning systems in downstream areas.
As part of ongoing efforts to control and mitigate flood-related risks at the Kulekhani Reservoir, the hydropower station has been operating at full capacity in coordination with the Nepal Electricity Authority’s Load Dispatch Center (LDC), according to the plant chief.
Additional experienced personnel have been deployed at the dam site, while the dam’s diesel generator (DG) has been tested and kept in operational condition.
Siren Coverage Extended to 5 Kilometers
The center stated that its dam control system includes a siren network capable of covering areas within a five-kilometer radius.
Awareness notices outlining situations that may require siren activation and related precautionary information have been prepared and displayed through flex boards at the Deurali, Simkhola, Heavy, Khanikhola and Sisneri police posts.
Alternative arrangements have also been made to ensure that electronic sirens installed in downstream areas remain operational even during power outages. Diesel generators have been installed to support sirens located at the Sisneri Police Post downstream of the dam and at the new building of Indrasarowar Rural Municipality.
The center said concerned personnel have also been trained on how to operate the siren system.
Handheld Sirens for Emergencies
Two handheld sirens have also been distributed to provide immediate warnings during emergencies.
According to the center, the sirens have been handed over to the Khanikhet Temporary Police Post and the Armed Police Force unit based in Heavy.
SMS Alerts for Early Warning
Arrangements have also been made to send SMS alerts to relevant authorities and residents in affected areas if the dam gates need to be opened.
For this purpose, mobile numbers of members of the Makwanpur District Disaster Management Committee, focal persons of local governments, heads of various offices, and residents living in downstream communities have been collected.
The center noted that a large number of mobile numbers have been gathered from residents of Indrasarowar and Bhimphedi rural municipalities.
Through these measures, Kulekhani-I has integrated reservoir water management, dam monitoring, backup power systems, siren networks, handheld sirens, and SMS-based alerts to ensure timely warnings for downstream communities facing potential flood risks.
Jalasarokar