Relief Likely for Sunni Area as Sutlej Desilting Work to Begin Soon: DC Shimla

Shimla, February 10: Residents of the Sunni area are likely to get relief from rising water levels as desilting work in the Sutlej river will be taken up soon. This was stated by Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap after NTPC submitted the Bathymetry and Siltation Report related to the Koldam Hydropower Station.

A special meeting was held at Bachat Bhawan under the chairmanship of the Deputy Commissioner, during which NTPC officials gave a detailed presentation on the report. The survey was conducted using sonar-based bathymetry technology through IIT Roorkee, which maps underwater depth and riverbed structure.

DC Anupam Kashyap said the survey was carried out following concerns over increasing silt accumulation in the Sunni region. Based on silt deposition, the river stretch has been divided into three zones—Tattapani (Zone-1), Sunni (Zone-2), and Chaba (Zone-3). The report indicates variations in silt accumulation between 2014 and 2023, with higher accumulation observed in Zone-3 during 2022 and 2023, mainly due to road construction, project activities, and floods.

He clarified that while silt has accumulated in the reservoir, it is still within the reservoir’s capacity. The report has recommended desilting measures, and the district administration is preparing a detailed plan to undertake regulated desilting to prevent a rise in water levels and reduce monsoon-related risks.

The Deputy Commissioner said that necessary approvals, including forest clearances, will be examined and a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) will be prepared before initiating desilting work. NTPC management has assured full cooperation in the process.

Senior district and NTPC officials were present during the meeting.