Hirakud Dam Opens 22 Gates, Odisha on High Alert

Bhubaneswar: Authorities at Hirakud Dam have opened 22 gates to release excess water as inflow surged past 4.15 lakh cusecs following heavy rainfall in upstream catchment areas.

The downstream discharge currently stands at 3.89 lakh cusecs, with officials warning that water flow at Khairmal may rise to 7.5 lakh cusecs.

Two additional gates were opened on Saturday to regulate rising water levels, and the reservoir is being monitored round the clock.

District administrations have issued advisories urging residents to remain vigilant, avoid entering the river, and follow official instructions.

Emergency teams are on standby, and surveillance has been strengthened along flood‑prone stretches of the Mahanadi river system.

Gate operations will be adjusted as needed to balance discharge and minimise flood risks.