Broken gate of Balimela Dam raises concerns

Malkangiri: The emergency gate of Balimela Dam constructed on Sileru River in Malkangiri district has not been closed since the day it was opened as a result of which water is constantly flowing out of the dam. It is suspected that if the water flow is left unchecked then it will adversely affect irrigation and power generation.

The project officer of the dam informed that they are unable to close it as a bearing of the gate has disintegrated.

After the news was telecast on OTV, Special Officer of the Information & Public Relations Department Rabindra Kumar Jena in a press release stated that construction work to check the flow of water from the dam is underway.

Jena said that the project has been acquired through various schemes with support from World Bank. The construction of the dam is still in progress and after completion there will be no more wastage of water. The dam will also be able to hold water as per its capacity, added Jena.