Pune, 31st July 2026: The Irrigation Department has increased the discharge from Khadakwasla Dam into the Mutha River to 22,880 cusecs from 12 noon on Friday after continuous heavy rainfall led to a rapid rise in the reservoir's water level.
According to officials, rainfall intensified across the catchment areas of all four dams in the Khadakwasla reservoir chain from early morning, significantly increasing water inflow. To manage the rising storage safely, the dam authorities raised the release by 16,247 cusecs, taking the total discharge to 22,880 cusecs.
Officials also said the outflow may be revised further depending on rainfall intensity and incoming water over the next few hours.
The irrigation department has cautioned that if heavy rainfall persists in the catchment area, the discharge from Khadakwasla Dam could increase to 30,000 cusecs. The situation is being monitored continuously, and further operational decisions will depend on the inflow into the reservoir.
The highest discharge recorded from the dam so far this monsoon was 27,203 cusecs on July 8, 2026. If the current rainfall continues, that figure could be surpassed.
The administration has appealed to residents to avoid entering the Mutha River or venturing near the riverbank. People have also been asked to immediately shift livestock, equipment and other belongings from the riverbed and low-lying areas as a precaution.
Authorities urged citizens to remain vigilant, follow official advisories and cooperate with local administration until the water release is reduced.
As of 8:00 am on July 31, the reservoir levels were:
Khadakwasla Dam: 100% full
Panshet Dam: 98.39% full (Discharge: 1,714 cusecs)
Varasgaon Dam: 95.28% full (No discharge)
Temghar Dam: 83.36% full (No discharge)
Officials said the discharge from Khadakwasla Dam will continue to be adjusted based on rainfall and inflow conditions, and citizens should remain alert until further updates are issued.
