Hirakud Dam Closes Two Gates As Reservoir Level Falls
Sambalpur: Authorities at Hirakud Dam closed two sluice gates on Friday morning as the reservoir level continued to recede.
At 9 AM, the water level stood at 621.50 feet, prompting officials to reduce outflow while maintaining flood management downstream.
Currently, 15 gates remain open — 10 on the left spillway and 5 on the right.
The average inflow has risen to 2,59,805 cusecs, while the outflow is slightly higher at 2,70,852 cusecs.
Outflow distribution includes 2,36,790 cusecs through the spillway, 31,182 cusecs via the power channel, 229 cusecs for industrial use, and 2,651 cusecs through canal systems serving Bargarh and Sambalpur.
Downstream flow levels show a mixed trend: Mundali recorded a steady 4,74,624 cusecs, Khairmal and Barmul reported falling levels at 3,90,000 and 3,81,250 cusecs respectively.
Belgaon and Patharla registered 25,000 and 54,765 cusecs.
Light rainfall was reported in the catchment area, with Burla receiving 3.8 mm and Hirakud 1.7 mm. Authorities continue to closely monitor inflows and rainfall in the upper catchment to manage flood risks.
