Linganamakki dam close to brim, power output doubles

The Sharavathi Generating Station (SGS) has increased its power generation from the existing 9 million to 10 million units per day to 20 million to 22.16 million units (MU) from August 14.

This is because Linganamakki dam is inching towards its brim for the first time in the last three years. Sources in the Karnataka Power Corporation Limited said the dam reached 1,817.25 feet against the maximum level of 1,819 feet on August 20. The inflow of water was 30,094 cusecs. As rains receded, outflow of water was stopped from the dam on the evening of August 20.

SGS accounts for nearly 22% of the power generated in the state

Speaking to DH, H Mohan, executive engineer, said, "following huge rise in inflow of water, quantum of power generation was increased. All the 10 units of SGS are in good condition and maximum power is being generated to avoid wastage of water. Around 50 MW of electricity is being generated from four units of the Mahatma Gandhi Hydro Power Plant at present out of eight units as the renovation work is in progress there. Gerusoppa power plant is generating 240 MW of power. Similarly, the Linganamakki power house is generating 55 MW.

Officials concerned have urged the government to stop buying electricity from outside as it could be generated at a much lower price here due to the good spell of rains. The cost of a unit of power in SGS is around 44.16 paisa and 60 paisa in Mahatma Gandhi Hydro Electric Plant.

According to official records, the dam is likely to reach the maximum level of 1,819 feet shortly for the 14th time since its construction. Ever since the construction of the Linganamakki dam in 1964, the dam has reached full level only 13 times and the previous occasion was in 2014. It has a capacity to store 159 tmc ft of water.

Jog Falls has come back to its glory due to the release of water from the dam. Tourists are thronging the place to have a glimpse of the glory.