The Pong Dam water level has reached a critical stage, rising more than five feet above its maximum permissible level due to heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh. The Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) reported on Wednesday that the water level was recorded at 1,395.17 feet against the stipulated upper limit of 1,390 feet.
The surge in water levels is a direct result of intense rainfall in the dam’s catchment areas across Kullu, Mandi, and Kangra districts. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), these regions have received rainfall far above the long-period average, with Mandi experiencing a 457% increase and Kangra a 241% increase over the past seven days.
While the situation at the Pong Dam is a cause for concern, the BBMB is maintaining a strategic approach at the Bhakra Dam. The water level there was recorded at 1,676.74 feet, more than three feet below its upper limit of 1,680 feet. This buffer is being maintained as a precaution against any unexpected heavy rain in the Sutlej catchment area.
Some experts suggest that with the monsoon in its withdrawal phase and the official filling period for dams ending this month, the Pong Dam reservoir could be filled up to its maximum capacity. The period from October to May is the depletion period, during which inflows significantly reduce due to lack of rains and snowmelt. The Pong Dam water level will remain a key indicator for flood management in the region.