Mini Mata Bango Dam reaches 358.82 metres, or 94.95% of its total capacity; over 41,000 cusecs of water being released into the Hasdeo River as authorities intensify downstream monitoring
Korba, Chhattisgarh: Continuous rainfall across the Hasdeo River catchment has once again pushed the water level of Mini Mata Bango Dam in Korba district close to its maximum capacity, forcing authorities to reopen seven gates as a precautionary measure.
According to the latest official figures, the dam’s water level has risen to 358.82 metres, equivalent to 94.95% of its total capacity. With water continuing to flow into the reservoir, dam authorities have reopened seven gates to regulate the inflow and prevent excessive pressure on the structure.
As of Thursday night, approximately 41,000 cusecs of water was being released into the Hasdeo River.
Bango Dam Gates Reopened for the Second Time This Monsoon
The reopening of the gates is significant because such a situation is rarely witnessed during a single monsoon season. The Bango Dam gates had already remained open for an extended period earlier this season before being completely closed after the reservoir level came under control.
However, fresh and intense rainfall across Korba and other areas of the Hasdeo catchment has resulted in another sharp rise in inflow.
The dam administration is closely monitoring the situation and adjusting gate operations according to the inflow and reservoir level.
More Than 41,000 Cusecs of Water Being Released
The latest figures indicate that inflow and outflow at the dam are currently being maintained at approximately the same level.
| Water Management Status | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Inflow | 41,239 cusecs |
| Outflow | 41,239 cusecs |
| Hydel Power Plant Discharge | 9,000 cusecs |
| Radial Gate Discharge | 32,239 cusecs |
The controlled release is aimed at maintaining the reservoir level while preventing a sudden increase in water pressure.
Hasdeo River Water Level Rises; Darri Barrage Also Put on Alert
The release of such a large volume of water has increased the water level of the Hasdeo River downstream of the dam.
In view of the situation, authorities have also increased the opening of gates at Darri Barrage to regulate the flow and reduce the possibility of sudden flooding in downstream areas.
Teams from the Water Resources Department and dam administration are maintaining continuous surveillance of the river and reservoir conditions.
Residents living in low-lying and downstream areas have been advised to remain alert and avoid approaching the river or water-release zones.
Bango Dam Gates Had Remained Open for 16 Consecutive Days
Earlier this monsoon, the Bango Dam witnessed an unusual situation when its gates reportedly remained open continuously for around 16 days.
After the inflow declined, the reservoir level gradually came under control and the gates were completely closed on Sunday.
However, weather conditions changed again from Monday, with heavy rainfall reported in Korba as well as districts located within the Hasdeo River catchment, including Korea.
The renewed rainfall led to a rapid increase in inflow into the reservoir. By Wednesday midnight, the water level once again crossed the 94% mark, prompting authorities to reopen the gates.
Korba Records More Than 1,000 mm Average Rainfall
Korba district has received substantial rainfall since the beginning of the monsoon season.
From June 1 to September 3, the district recorded an average rainfall of approximately 1,002.8 mm.
The rainfall recorded in different tehsils during the period was:
| Tehsil | Rainfall |
|---|---|
| Ajgarbahar | 882.1 mm |
| Korba | 1,352.7 mm |
| Bhainsma | 1,121.2 mm |
| Kartala | 1,107.8 mm |
| Barpali | 884.7 mm |
| Katghora | 973.2 mm |
| Dipka | 1,077.6 mm |
| Darri | 1,092.1 mm |
| Pali | 972.3 mm |
| Hardibazar | 764.2 mm |
| Pondi-Uproda | 973.2 mm |
| Pasan | 832.6 mm |
The district also received an average of 7.5 mm of rainfall during the previous 24 hours.
Authorities Closely Monitoring the Situation
With the Bango Dam operating at nearly 95% of its capacity and substantial water being released into the Hasdeo River, authorities are keeping a close watch on rainfall, reservoir inflow, river levels and downstream conditions.
The gate-opening decision will depend on the reservoir level and the volume of water entering the dam.
Residents in downstream areas have been urged to follow official advisories and remain cautious, particularly near riverbanks, barrages and other water bodies.
Why This Development Matters
The latest development highlights the impact of sustained monsoon rainfall on major reservoirs in Chhattisgarh. With Bango Dam once again approaching the 95% storage mark, coordinated water management has become crucial to balance dam safety, power generation, irrigation requirements and downstream flood risk.
Key Takeaway: Bango Dam has reached 358.82 metres (94.95% capacity), prompting authorities to reopen seven gates and release around 41,239 cusecs of water. With heavy rainfall continuing in the Hasdeo catchment, downstream areas remain under close watch.
