Kargil, May 29: The National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) has issued a public advisory regarding reservoir flushing at the Chutak Power Station in Kargil district, warning that water levels downstream are expected to rise significantly during the scheduled exercise on May 31.
According to an official communication issued by the Chutak Power Station authorities, silt flushing at the Chutak Barrage will be carried out on May 31 from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. During this period, water will be released from the reservoir, resulting in increased river discharge downstream of the barrage.
Authorities have urged residents living near downstream areas of the barrage to avoid approaching the river under any circumstances during the flushing period.
The advisory specifically cautioned the public not to venture near the riverside as fluctuating and elevated water levels may pose safety risks.
NHPC officials said public announcements would also be made to alert residents and prevent movement near vulnerable stretches downstream of the power station.
The notice further stated that there would be no power generation from the Chutak Power Station during the flushing operation.
The communication has been circulated to district authorities and key departments, including police, irrigation, public works and disaster management agencies, as part of precautionary and coordination measures ahead of the exercise.
Reservoir flushing is a periodic maintenance activity undertaken at hydropower projects to remove accumulated silt and sediment, ensuring operational efficiency and protecting long-term infrastructure performance.
Authorities have advised the public to remain cautious and cooperate with safety instructions during the scheduled operation.
The Chutak Hydroelectric Plant is a 44 MW run-of-the-river power station on the Suru River in Kargil, Ladakh. Operated by NHPC Limited, it harnesses local water resources to generate vital electricity for the remote Kargil district, officially achieving a record power generation of over 205 Million Units recently. [KNT]
