Mahanadi Basin Faces Moderate Flood Alert Amid Heavy Rainfall

The Water Resources Department has issued a moderate flood alert in the Mahanadi basin following continuous rainfall in the upper catchment areas.

Hirakud Dam currently has two gates open, with the reservoir level at 616 ft against its full capacity of 630 ft.

Authorities confirmed no further gates will be opened due to heavy downstream rainfall.

By Thursday evening, Mundali barrage is expected to record up to 9 lakh cusecs, while releases at Naraj will remain below 10 lakh cusecs, ensuring controlled flow.

Low‑lying and riverbank regions may face temporary inundation and connectivity disruptions, though a major flood is unlikely.

Bijepur in Baragada district recorded the highest rainfall at 314 mm in the past 24 hours.

Rainfall is expected to ease in northern Odisha but intensify in southern and western regions.

Tributaries such as Tel and Sukhtel are contributing additional floodwaters to the Mahanadi.

Officials have assured that precautionary measures are in place to manage the situation and minimise risks to affected communities.