An important inter-state meeting was recently held to strengthen flood control measures in Western Maharashtra, with a focus on the Almatti Dam. The meeting, conducted online from the Kolhapur District Collectorate, saw active participation from key officials of both Maharashtra and Karnataka.
One of the major outcomes of the meeting was the proposal to raise the water level of the Almatti Dam to 517 meters by August 15. This decision is part of a larger strategy to manage water discharge effectively and mitigate the risk of flooding in the region.
The meeting focused on crucial issues such as the water levels of the Panchganga and Krishna rivers and the discharge management of the Almatti Dam. Given the recurring threat of monsoon-induced floods, both states agreed to intensify coordination between the water resources departments, disaster management agencies, and district administrations.
It was agreed that timely communication regarding the volume and timing of water release from the Almatti Dam would be shared with Maharashtra’s relevant agencies. In case of a potential flood, disaster management authorities from all four affected districts will coordinate closely.
Further emphasis was laid on improving the early warning system to ensure that citizens receive real-time alerts in flood-prone areas. Discussions also covered proactive measures like evacuating residents from vulnerable zones, timely removal of barges from embankments, and the clearing of unauthorized structures from riverbeds.
To take these decisions forward, a joint meeting of the Chief Secretaries of Maharashtra and Karnataka is scheduled for May 29, where further policy directions will be finalized.
The meeting was attended by the District Collectors, Superintendents of Police, senior officials from the Water Resources Departments of both states, and dam engineers.
This collaborative effort signals a strong intent by both state governments to minimize the impact of floods and ensure the safety of communities living along the river basins.