India, July 4 -- Heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas of the Sutlej and Beas rivers in Himachal Pradesh has led to an increase in the water levels of the Pong and Ranjit Sagar dams. The water levels in these reservoirs are significantly higher compared to the same period last year. However, the Bhakra Dam continues to show lower levels than last year, officials familiar with the matter said.

These dams are critical for irrigation and hydropower generation across the region, with a combined irrigation potential of 1,024 lakh hectares and a hydropower capacity of 2,375 MW.

Since June 1, Himachal has received 58% above-average rainfall. This excess rain, totalling 183.4 mm, has caused the water inflows to rise significantly in the P...