TV
Amid continuous and intense rainfall in the upper catchment areas, the water level in Odisha’s Hirakud Reservoir is rising steadily, prompting authorities to release excess water through 20 gates.
As per official reports, the water level at the reservoir stood at 610.21 feet on Saturday, while the reservoir’s maximum capacity is 630 feet.
With heavy inflow continuing from upstream, dam authorities have initiated controlled release of floodwater to prevent any breach of safe limits.
Officials from the Water Resources Department confirmed that the situation is being closely monitored and that a decision regarding opening more gates or closing the existing ones will depend on the amount of rainfall and inflow in the coming days.
Despite the rising water levels, the Department confirmed that no immediate danger has been detected, although precautionary measures are being enforced. However, people living in downstream and low-lying areas have been advised to remain alert and cautious, especially along the banks of the Mahanadi River.
Notably, as many as 43 blocks across 15 districts have received over 50 millimeters of rainfall in the last 24 hours, leading to increased river inflows.
Meanwhile, the Special Relief Commissioner has issued instructions to District Collectors in areas likely to be affected by heavy rainfall, urging them to remain on high alert.
