The Ministry of Water Development and Irrigation has announced that it intends to carry out discharge measurements on Shire River which will involve opening and closing of the 14 gates of the Kamuzu Barrage at Liwonde between Thursday, the 13th and Saturday the 15th of September 2012.

“Opening and closing of the gates is likely to result into some form of flood release at once due to surges and low flows especially to surrounding areas immediately downstream of the Barrage.

“The Ministry would like to ensure the general public that the operation will be done with great caution and care so that any impacts are minimized,” reads part of the press release signed by a Mr. Maweru secretary foe Water Development and Irrigation.

He said the opening and closing of the gates may only be felt and observed in the downstream areas close to the Barrage.

“The Ministry of Water Development and Irrigation is therefore advising the general public downstream of the Kamuzu Barrage to take caution and care to avoid any unfavourable eventualities so that life and property are well protected,” says the release.