Full Reservoir Achievement
Mettur Dam Reaches Full Capacity Again: The Stanley Reservoir in Mettur, Salem district, reached its Full Reservoir Level (FRL) of 120 feet on October 20, 2025, marking the seventh time this year. Earlier, the dam attained FRL on June 12, July 5, July 28, August 19, September 15, and October 3, 2025. This level of frequency has not been recorded since 1977.
Static GK fact: Mettur Dam is one of the largest dams in Tamil Nadu and plays a critical role in irrigation and water supply for the Cauvery delta.
Flood Alert and Safety Measures
Following the full capacity, authorities issued a flood alert to 11 delta districts. Residents in low-lying areas have been advised to take precautionary measures. The alert is part of the state’s disaster management protocol for high inflows during the monsoon season.
Static GK fact: The Tamil Nadu State Disaster Management Authority (TNSDMA) is responsible for issuing flood warnings and coordinating relief operations across affected districts.
Historical Context
The last year when Mettur Dam reached its FRL seven times in a single year was 1977, highlighting the unusually heavy inflows in 2025. In comparison, in 2024, the dam reached FRL only three times. This indicates a significant rise in rainfall or upstream water release patterns.
Static GK Tip: The Mettur Dam was constructed across the Cauvery River in 1934 and is primarily used for irrigation, drinking water, and hydroelectric power generation.
Reservoir Capacity and Significance
The full capacity of Mettur Dam is 93.47 tmc ft. Maintaining this capacity ensures sufficient water for the Cauvery delta irrigation system, which supports agriculture in several districts. Water management from Mettur Dam is crucial for paddy cultivation, drinking water supply, and industrial use in the region.
Static GK fact: The dam also feeds the Stanley Hydro-Electric Power Plant, contributing renewable energy to Tamil Nadu’s grid.
Environmental and Agricultural Impact
While reaching full capacity is positive for water availability, excessive storage may increase flood risks. Effective water release protocols are essential to prevent inundation of downstream agricultural lands and populated areas. This year’s record-level inflows emphasize the need for continuous monitoring and advanced flood management systems.
Static GK Tip: Tamil Nadu experiences frequent monsoon-related water surges, making the Mettur Dam a vital asset for flood control and irrigation management.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Mettur Dam Reaches Full Capacity Again:
| Topic | Detail |
| Dam Name | Mettur Dam (Stanley Reservoir) |
| Location | Salem district, Tamil Nadu |
| Full Reservoir Level | 120 feet |
| Number of Times FRL Reached in 2025 | 7 |
| Last Year with 7 FRL Reaches | 1977 |
| Dam Capacity | 93.47 tmc ft |
| Flood Alert | Issued to 11 delta districts |
| Key Uses | Irrigation, drinking water, hydroelectric power |
| Previous Year FRL Frequency | 3 times in 2024 |
| River | Cauvery River |
