Authorities at the Kaptai Dam in Rangamati opened 16 spillway gates by six inches each at 11:20 a.m. on Saturday to release about 9,000 cusecs of water into the Karnaphuli River. The decision followed heavy rainfall and mountain runoff that rapidly raised the water level of Kaptai Lake. The measure aims to manage upstream and downstream water flow and prevent potential flooding.

According to the manager engineer of the Karnaphuli Hydropower Station, the lake’s water level reached 104.08 feet MSL at 10 a.m. on Saturday. Five power generation units are currently operating, producing an average of 222 megawatts of electricity while discharging around 32,000 cusecs of water through turbines. The lake’s maximum capacity is 109 feet MSL, and authorities may open more gates if necessary.

Officials have advised residents in low-lying areas along the Karnaphuli River to remain alert. The situation is being continuously monitored, and Rangamati’s deputy commissioner and other local officials visited the dam to observe the water release operation.