KATHMANDU: Residents along the Mahakali riverbanks have been urged to maintain high vigilance as the NHPC Limited Dhauliganga Power Station in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, opens its dam gates for silt flushing from Wednesday morning (6:00 AM) to Thursday afternoon (6:00 PM).

The District Administration Offices in Darchula and Baitadi issued urgent public notices warning of a rapid rise in water levels and potential flooding downstream.

Assistant Chief District Officers Mohan Singh Dhami (Darchula) and Rajmani Niraula (Baitadi) confirmed that local authorities, security forces, and emergency stakeholders have been placed on standby to coordinate disaster readiness and ensure the safety of coastal communities during the 36-hour window.