Umiam water level reaches danger mark

SHILLONG

: The water level in the scenic Umiam (Barapani) Lake, one of the

major tourist spots

in the state, has reached the

danger mark

because of incessant rain. On Tuesday, the authorities cautioned people against any activity on the banks of the Umiam.

In case of heavy rainfall in the catchment areas of the Umiam dam, the reservoir may become full which will necessitate the opening of the gates of the dam to allow floodwaters to pass," a release issued by the

Meghalaya

Power Generation Corporation Limited ( MePGCL ) read. The chief engineer (maintenance and small hydro), MePGCL, has cautioned all persons residing or working in the downstream of the Umiam dam against engaging in any activity near the banks as the water level may suddenly rise due to the opening of dam gates. The MePGCL said efforts would be made to regulate the discharge of water through the gates.