What will happen if gates of Kaptai dam are opened 

The authorities have decided to open 16 gates of the Kaptai Hydroelectric Power Plant as the water level of Kaptai Lake is rising due to incessant rainfall and the onrush of water from upstream.

A rumor has spread in social media that it will create a disaster.   But the authorities have assured that it will not create any disaster like flooding.

The Karnafuli Hydroelectric Power Station authority issued an urgent warning for downstream people on Saturday.

The gates are going to be opened when 18 people have so far died and over 49 lakh people have been affected as the ongoing flood hit 77 upazilas in 11 districts of the country.

The people of the downstream areas of the Haldar and Karnafuli rivers will be adversely affected by the flood water if the sluices are opened now, some people fear.   

The water level in Kaptai Lake in Rangamati has risen close to the danger level due to heavy rainfall and the onrush of water from upstream.

The water level in the lake was 107.63 MSL (Mean Sea Level) as of 2 pm on Saturday, against its maximum reserve capacity of 109 MSL.

According to the authority's warning note, if the water level reaches 108 MSL, the gates will be opened. Every year, gates are opened but it does not create flooding. 

Authorities on Saturday night said they may open the gates on Sunday.