TV
The Hirakud Dam authorities on Sunday released the first floodwater of the season by opening the sluice gate number-7 on the left spillway at 10 AM following a special ritual and puja.
As per official sources, flood discharge will be carried out in different phases, with a total of 12 gates expected to be opened depending on water inflow and reservoir level.
This marks the beginning of monsoon-season flood management by the Hirakud Dam, one of Asia's longest earthen dams, built on the Mahanadi River.
Ahead of the water release, siren warnings were sounded early in the morning to alert people in the downstream areas. Public announcements were also made two days in advance through loudspeakers and local messaging systems to ensure preparedness among residents.
Due to heavy rainfall in the upper catchment, the Mahanadi River is swelling, and the water level of the Hirakud reservoir is rising steadily. As a precaution, awareness drives were conducted in Burla, Hirakud, Sambalpur, and nearby areas located along the downstream stretch of the Mahanadi River.
Authorities have assured that the water release is being done in a controlled and phased manner, and there is no immediate threat of flooding. However, officials have urged people living near the riverbanks to remain alert.
