Due to incessant rains in the last few days, the water level at Umïam Reservoir in Shillong, the state capital of Meghalaya, has risen to 3206.90 ft till 8 am on Thursday.
The total level of the Umïam Reservoir is 3,220 ft.
A statement issued by the government on Thursday evening said that if heavy rain continues in the catchment area of the Umïam dam, the reservoir may become full, which will necessitate the opening of gates of the Umïam concrete dam to allow the flood to pass through.
“All persons residing or working in the downstream of the Umiam Concrete Dam are cautioned against engaging in any activity near the banks of the Umïam river as the level of water in the river may suddenly rise due to opening of gates of the Umïam Concrete Dam.
“However, all efforts will be made to regulate the discharge of water through the gates to the minimum,” the statement said while quoting the information provided by the Chief Engineer (C), Maintenance & Small Hydro of the Meghalaya Power Generation Corporation Limited (MePGCL).
During the day on Thursday, there was no heavy rain, but light rain showered in the evening.
Heavy rain in Meghalaya has caused landslides in many places besides severe flash floods.
Meanwhile an Executive Engineer, PWD (Roads), Nongstoiñ Division, Nongstoin informed on Thursday that due to incessant rain since July 6, landslides at numerous stretches on the Shillong-Nongstoiñ-Rongjeng-Tura road of NH-44E and 127B, has partially blocked the road and restricted the smooth and safe plying of vehicles.
The blockade is expected to be cleared by Friday depending on the decrease of rainfall intensity.
Occurrence of landslides at stretches of Mawshynrut-Hahim road was also reported which has disrupted plying of vehicles. Temporary restoration works to clear the debris and restore the movement of vehicles have been taken up.
Asking drivers to drive cautiously, the statement said every effort from the department has been pressed for the convenience of the public.