Photo: BSS

RANGAMATI, July 18, 2026 (BSS) - As the water level of Kaptai Dam approached the danger mark, 16 gates of the spillway at the Kaptai Karnaphuli Hydroelectric Power Station were opened simultaneously by 6 inches each at 11:20 am today.

As a result, approximately 9,000 cusecs of water per second is now being discharged into the Karnaphuli River.

Mahmud Hasan, Engineer and Manager of the Karnaphuli Hydroelectric Power Station, told BSS, the water level of Kaptai Dam reached 104.08 feet MSL at 10:00 AM today. The maximum water retention capacity of Kaptai Lake is 109 feet MSL. The decision to regulate the water was taken as continuous rainfall and upstream hill torrents increased the lake's water inflow.

He added that five units of the power station are currently operational. 

Along with generating an average of 222 megawatts of electricity from these units, approximately 32,000 cusecs of water per second is being discharged through the turbines. 

The concerned authorities have advised residents of the low-lying areas along the Karnaphuli River to remain vigilant. The situation is being monitored continuously.

Rangamati Deputy Commissioner Nazma Ashrafi observed the water discharge situation through the sluice gates of the Kaptai Hydroelectric Power Station. 

Rangamati District Administration's Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Md. Ruhul Amin, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Education and ICT) Md. Alamgir Hossain, Kaptai Upazila Executive Officer Rayhanul Islam, along with officials from Kaptai PDB and Rangamati District Administration, were present.