Odisha’s Indravati reservoir swells; water release likely at any time

An alert was issued by Indravati Dam authorities on Monday in view of the rising water level in Indravati reservoir in Kalahandi district. It is said, the water level has almost reached its full storage capacity, prompting officials to caution local residents about the possibility of water release at any moment as part of precautionary measures.

Also Read: IMD DG explains the likely impact of cyclone ‘Montha’ on Odisha

Authorities have appealed to people not to stay near riverbanks and to move their livestock to safer areas. In addition, night-time movement in the riverbed has been strictly prohibited to ensure public safety.

According to the latest information, the water-holding capacity of Indravati reservoir is 642 metres, while the current level stands at 641 metres, just a metre below the ‘danger mark’. Officials are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with local administrations to prevent any untoward incident.

The general public residing in the lower part of the river is not to use the water body in any way and to remove their livestock from the riverbanks, requested the dam authorities.

Movement in the river at night has been completely prohibited. If there is any damage due to disobedience of these instructions, the authorities will not be held responsible, an order issued by Upper Indravati Dam Division Additional Chief Engineer mentioned.

Meanwhile, India Meteorological Department (IMD) Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, while speaking exclusively to OTV on the likely impact of cyclone Montha on Odisha, said “During the period after landfall, particularly in the case of Odisha, the wind speed will be around 60-70 kmph gusting to 80 kmph, which will especially be felt in southern Odisha, and Ganjam and Gajapati districts. The other districts include Koraput, Nabarangpur, Malkangiri, Rayagada, Kalahandi, and Nuapada,”.

“The wind at maximum speed will start blowing from October 28 evening and likely will continue till the next morning,” the IMD Director General added.