Sambalpur, | July 7, (OT Webdesk): In response to continued heavy rainfall across the Mahanadi basin, authorities at the Hirakud Dam have opened 20 sluice gates to manage rising reservoir levels and ease downstream pressure.
According to the Water Resources Department, the dam is currently receiving 3.42 lakh cusecs of water per second and discharging 3.35 lakh cusecs.
The water level stands at 609.79 feet, just below the danger threshold.
The inflow surge is driven by intense precipitation in the upper catchment areas of Chhattisgarh and Odisha.
Officials expect high inflow to persist for the next 48 hours, prompting continued monitoring and the potential for additional gate releases.
While there is no immediate flood threat, downstream districts such as Cuttack, Puri, and Jagatsinghpur have been placed on alert.
Local administrations have activated contingency protocols and urged residents in low-lying regions to remain cautious and avoid riverbanks.
This discharge operation began with the ceremonial opening of Gate No.
7 at 10 AM on Sunday, marking the onset of this year’s monsoon flood management cycle. Officials conducted a customary puja ahead of the first release, in line with tradition.
The Hirakud Dam, one of Asia’s longest earthen dams, plays a vital role in flood regulation and irrigation across Odisha.
As the region enters peak monsoon season, authorities emphasise that real-time river data and rainfall forecasts will guide further action to ensure public safety.
