Idukki: dam shutter opened after 26 years

Idukki: After 26 years, a shutter of the Cheruthoni dam of the Idukki reservoir in Kerala was opened on Thursday as the water level inched towards its full capacity of 2,403 feet. The dam shutters were last opened in October 1992. The third shutter of the Cheruthoni dam to be kept open for four hours. Authorities have 50 cubic metres of water is being released per second. Strict restrictions have been imposed on taking selfies and fishing in river. People living along the banks of Periyar River have been asked to stay alert. Arrivals at Cochin international airport in Nedubassery halted after water released from Idukki dam. Power minister MM Mani had last week said the shutters of the Cheruthoni dam will be lifted for a trial run and there will be a limited release of water when the level hits 2,398 feet.