Odisha Flood Update: Authorities open 40 gates at Hirakud to release excess flood water

In a major development, Odisha government on Tuesday decided to release excess flood water by opening more gates of Hirakud dam.

As per latest decision, around 40 gates of Hirakud were opened to flush out excess floodwater.  Initially,10 (5 each) additional gates of Hirakud dam were opened in the first phase in the afternoon and by evening today a total of 14 gates were opened. 

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With the reopening of 14 additional gates, floodwater is being released through 40 gates of Hirakud at present. Earlier, 26 gates of Hirakud dam were opened. While the current inflow into the dam is 6,91,950 cusecs, the outflow is 6,10,003 cusecs.

“For flood controlling moderation and keeping in view of the reservoir level, we have decided to open additional gates of Hirakud dam,” said Bijay Kumar Mishra, engineer-in-chief of the water resources department.

Mishra said that at present the level of Hirakud stands at 626.5 ft and there is no forecast of rainfall in the next couple of days.

As IMD has predicted rainfall in view of another low pressure system, we have decided to release excess water during this period which will act as a cushion, Mishra added. “Now the water level of Tel and other is reducing and the water from Hirakud will be accommodated easily during this phase," he informed.

Earlier, Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik had reviewed the flood situation and directed Collectors of 10 districts to remain alert.