ROPAR, June 10 — An overflow in the Anandpur Sahib Hydel Canal near the Bhanupali siphon drew the attention of PSPCL officials on Tuesday after residents reported water escaping from the canal system.
The incident was first detected by people living in villages around the Bhanupali area, who noticed water flowing out near the siphon section. Concerned residents informed authorities, leading to a swift response from the civil wing of Punjab State Power Corporation Limited, which oversees the operation and maintenance of canal infrastructure connected to hydel projects.
Officials arrived at the location to assess the extent of the problem and determine what caused the overflow. Executive Engineer Avinash Sharma said an inquiry was underway.
“We are reaching the spot and after conducting an investigation, we will find out the reason for the overflow,” Sharma said.
While the exact cause had not been officially confirmed, officials and sources familiar with the canal’s operations pointed to a possible blockage caused by accumulated waste. Plastic bags, bottles and other discarded materials carried by flowing water are believed to have collected near the siphon, restricting the movement of water through the system.
PSPCL personnel said the disposal of solid waste into canals continues to create operational difficulties despite regular cleaning efforts. Officials, speaking anonymously, said the corporation removes hundreds of tonnes of debris and garbage from canal channels every month.
“The increasing amount of garbage entering the canal has become a major problem, and it is likely that the accumulation of garbage near the siphon caused the flow of water to stop and it started leaking out,” an official said.
The overflow renewed concerns about the impact of indiscriminate dumping on public infrastructure. Residents said recurring waste disposal in waterways not only affects canal operations but can also create safety concerns for nearby communities.
Authorities said the situation was being monitored and that the findings of the inspection would help determine the next course of action.
