Dam spillway opens as rains swell river; residents warned of danger

The Tiruvannamalai district administration has activated flood safety protocols as water levels rise in the Kamandalam Naganathi river following dam spillway operations. District Collector Vandhana Garg issued the precautionary notice on Tuesday, urging residents and travelers to exercise extreme caution in the affected areas.

The warning specifically targets populations in Cheyyar, Arani, Vandavasi, and Polur towns situated along the river's course. Residents have been instructed to avoid attempting to cross the waterway as currents intensify due to the increased water discharge from Shenbagathoppu dam.

The spillway release is a standard flood management measure implemented when reservoir levels exceed safe thresholds due to monsoon rains. Water flow in the Kamandalam Naganathi has already begun accelerating, with the district administration monitoring the situation closely. Local authorities have heightened surveillance and are coordinating with relief teams to ensure public safety in low-lying areas adjacent to the river.

District officials have appealed to residents to remain vigilant and heed all official advisories. Those living in vulnerable zones have been advised to move to higher ground if water levels continue to rise, while transport authorities have been directed to reroute traffic away from crossings over the river.