SHIVAMOGGA
The Linganamakki reservoir, a critical pillar of Karnataka’s hydroelectric power grid, has hit a crisis point. Located near the iconic Jog Falls in Sagar taluk, the dam has witnessed an alarming drop in water levels, forcing authorities to bring its power generation operations to a complete standstill.
The water level at the reservoir has dipped to 1,745.75 feet. While the facility is technically capable of operating until the water hits the 1,743-foot mark, officials have decided to cease all production as a precautionary measure. Experts from the Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) and the Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited (KPTCL) warned that pushing the machinery any further could result in severe, long-term technical damage to the power units.
This stoppage marks a significant blow to the state’s daily energy output. Under normal conditions, the Linganamakki power station generates approximately 55 megawatts (MW) of electricity every day. With this unit now offline, the local grid faces a notable shortfall.
The primary culprit behind this crisis is the delayed and weak performance of the current monsoon season. Inflow into the reservoir has slowed to a trickle, and with the catchment areas remaining dry, officials are pessimistic about a quick restart. The power station is expected to remain inactive until the monsoon rains gain significant momentum, causing water levels to rise safely above the critical threshold.
Local residents and industry observers are now anxiously monitoring the weather forecasts, hoping for heavy rainfall in the coming days. Until the skies open up and water inflows reach the reservoir, the massive turbines at Linganamakki will remain silent. The shutdown highlights the precarious nature of the state’s reliance on hydroelectric power, particularly during years when the monsoon fails to deliver on time. For now, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of the dam’s infrastructure while the region waits for the much-needed rains to replenish this vital water source.
