Malkangiri: The repair work of the emergency gate of Balimela Dam on Sileru River in Malkangiri district has started on a war footing to check unabated flow of water to Andhra Pradesh. The dam authorities were unable to close the gate since the day it was opened as a bearing had disintegrated.
Almost 60 percent water flow has been checked by placing hay-filled sacks and sand bags in front of the broken gate. Besides, 1500 cusec water is being brought from Machkund Power House. As a result of which the water level in the dam has increased, said Superintending Engineer of the project, Binod Mishra.
"The repair work is going as per the instructions. The reservoir level which was constant since last three days at 1,458 cusec was at 1,458.171 cusec today with a rise of six inches in water level," said Mishra.
Both Odisha and Andhra Pradesh have 50 percent ownership of the water in Balimela Dam. The water flow to Andhra has decreased due to construction of the gate, informed sources.
Superintending Engineer of Upper Sileru project, S Mohan Rao, has requested that Andhra should be provided adequate water as the Rabi crop farming is underway.
"We have not wasted water neither have we taken more than our share. It is fine for two to three days but if the water flow is checked continuously we will be facing problems as there is a need of 2500 cusec water for irrigation. If the tunnel is closed then they must provide water through the sluice gates," said Rao.
However, the decision will be taken in the upcoming water board meeting, said Mishra.
"We will place their requisition in the next water body meeting and the decision taken there will be final," added Mishra.