Hirakud Dam Opens 12 Gates Amid Heavy Rainfall; Flood Alert Issued in Sambalpur

Sambalpur,  — In response to relentless rainfall across the upper catchment areas, authorities at Hirakud Dam have opened 12 gates—eight on the left bank and four on the right—to manage the surging inflow and maintain reservoir safety.

The dam is currently receiving 2,05,426 cusecs of water per second, while 1,67,307 cusecs are being discharged downstream. The water level has risen to 629.97 feet, prompting close monitoring by dam officials.

Sambalpur recorded 177 mm of rainfall in the past 24 hours, leading to localised flooding and triggering a flood alert. Residents in low-lying areas have been advised to remain vigilant as water discharge continues.

Officials are assessing rainfall patterns and reservoir metrics, with further gate adjustments expected depending on evolving conditions.

The situation remains dynamic, and authorities are coordinating with disaster response teams to ensure public safety.