SUNSARI: Continuous rainfall in the eastern hilly and Terai districts has caused fluctuating water levels in the Saptakoshi River since Monday morning, as measured at the Koshi Barrage.
According to data recorded at 6:00 AM on Monday, the water flow was 175,685 cusecs. The same figure was reported again at 8:00 PM. By 10:00 PM, however, the flow had increased to 179,740 cusecs, according to Armed Police Superintendent Nirmal Thapa.
He informed that 19 of the 52 main gates, along with several canal gates, have been opened to manage the rising water level.
As the water flow has exceeded 150,000 cusecs, a red warning light has been activated at the barrage as a danger signal to alert the public. The Koshi Barrage Control Room confirmed that the signal was issued as per protocol.
For context, on August 18, 2008 , the Saptakoshi River had breached its eastern embankment when the water flow reached 168,000 cusecs — a reminder of the potential danger posed by high discharge levels.
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