Kulekhani rises by 2 meters in 4 hours; Simkholi stream diverted to mitigate risk

Hetauda, September 27 — The Kulekhani reservoir has experienced a significant rise in water levels, increasing by 2 meters over a 4-hour period. As of 5:30 PM, the water level was measured at 1,526 meters. This rapid inflow highlights the reservoir's importance in managing water resources.

At 9:20 PM, the water level further rose to 1,527.95 meters, according to Taradatta Bhatta, chief of Kulekhani Hydropower Project (Phase I). He noted that the reservoir has been receiving water at a consistent rate of 30 centimeters per hour. With only 2 meters remaining until the reservoir reaches its full capacity, the situation is being closely monitored.

The total storage capacity of the Kulekhani reservoir is 1,530 meters. Bhatt emphasized that once this capacity is exceeded, the reservoir will overflow, which poses a risk to surrounding areas. To mitigate this, power generation at the site has been ongoing to help manage the water levels effectively.

To further control the water flow, the 60 MW Kulekhani Hydropower Project is actively operational. Bhatta explained that water from the Simkholi stream has been diverted to prevent excessive inflow into the reservoir. With this diversion, the inflow rate has been reduced to 20 centimeters per hour, aiding in maintaining a manageable water level in the reservoir.