Karwar: Continuous heavy rainfall in the Sharavathi river catchment area has led to a sharp rise in water levels at the Linganamakki Dam, located near Honnavar. According to the District Disaster Management Authority, the dam’s maximum capacity is 1,819.00 feet, and as of 8 a.m. on Thursday, the water level had reached 1,811.95 feet (85.05% of capacity)

Inflow into the reservoir is over 11,200 cusecs, and if this rate continues, the dam is expected to reach maximum capacity soon. In the interest of dam safety, excess water may be released at any time, the KPCL Linganamakki executive engineer cautioned in a public notice.

Residents of low-lying areas along the Sharavathi River in Uttara Kannada district have been advised to remain alert. Those in flood-prone zones should move to relief centres with their valuables; such centres are ready to accommodate evacuees.

Fishermen, tourists and the general public have been strictly warned not to enter the river or surrounding areas, and to avoid both riverside locations and the sea until conditions improve.

For emergency assistance, the public can contact the toll-free number 08382-229857 or mobile 9483511015, district commissioner K. Lakshmipriya stated.