Water release from Mettur Dam for irrigation was stepped up to 21,500 cusecs today to meet the requirement of farmers in Cauvery Delta region.
The discharge had been increased to 21,500 cusecs from 12,500 cusecs, PWD officials said.
Consequently, hydel power generation in Old Power House, Tunnel Power House and six barrages has started with a total production of 440 MW, TNEB Ltd officials said.
The water level in the reservoir stood at 112.3 feet against the maximum level of 120 feet this morning.
Inflow into the dam was 7,132 cusecs.
Water was released from the dam on August 10 for long-term 'samba' paddy crop cultivation. Initially, around 9,000 cusecs was released.
