It is situated close to Asia’s first hydel power station
A file photo of illuminated Gaganachukki falls (Photo:DC)
Mysore: The majestic ‘Bluff’ falls at the ‘Sea of Shiva’, Shivanasamudra is slowly, but steadily attaining its monsoon magnificence. Thousands of tourists are making a beeline to witness the beauty of the falls. Located amidst rocky terrain and dense vegetation, the awe-inspiring falls comprising Gaganachukki and Bharachukki is situated close to Asia’s first hydel power station commissioned in 1902.
The deafening roar of the water of Cauvery river as it plummets into a deep gorge from nearly 350 feet and hits the rocky surface resulting in a cloud of vapour and foam, is a feast for all eyes.
With the South-West monsoon arriving over a month late, there were fears this year if Shivanasamudra would be at its splendid best this year. However, with good rainfall in the vicinity and Kabini reservoir discharging a steady 35,000 cusecs for nearly 10 days, the water rush is back.
It remains to be seen how long this continues as rainfall in the Kabini catchment area in Kerala has subsided bringing down the inflow into the Kabini dam from 38,000 cusecs to 12,000 cusecs. Proportionately, the outflow has also been slashed to around 11,000 cusecs.
Apart from the waterfalls, the island is a renowned pilgrim centre known as “Madhya Ranga”. “Adi Ranga” is Srirangapatana and “Antya Ranga” is Srirangam in Tamil Nadu. There are celebrated temples dedicated to Lord Ranganathaswamy at each of these three riverine islands, and hence, they are popular.
( Source : dc )
Next Story
