The Rengali Dam in Odisha’s Angul district released floodwater for the second time this year after a rise in inflow pushed up the reservoir level amid continued rainfall in the upper catchment areas.
Authorities are releasing water through Gate No. 8 and the power channel at around 2,000 cubic metres per second (cumecs). People living in downstream areas have been alerted and advised to stay away from the river and avoid entering the water.
Inflow Rises After Rainfall
The latest discharge follows rainfall in the upper catchment areas, which has resulted in a significant increase in the volume of water entering the reservoir.
At present, approximately 2,500 cubic metres of water is flowing into the reservoir every second, while around 2,000 cubic metres per second is being released downstream.
As the inflow remains higher than the outflow, dam authorities are closely monitoring the reservoir and regulating water discharge to manage the rising water level.
Rengali Reservoir Water Level Near Full Storage Mark
According to the latest information, the full reservoir level of Rengali Dam is 123.50 metres, while the current water level stands at around 122.14 metres.
The difference between the current level and the full storage mark has prompted authorities to maintain close surveillance of inflow and outflow conditions, particularly as rainfall continues in the catchment areas.
Downstream Residents Asked to Remain Alert
Following the release of water, authorities have issued an advisory for people residing in downstream areas.
Residents have been urged not to venture close to the riverbanks or enter the water, as the increased discharge could lead to a sudden rise in water levels and stronger currents downstream.
People in vulnerable areas have also been advised to follow instructions issued by local authorities and remain alert to further updates regarding the dam’s water release.
Second Water Release This Year
This marks the second instance of floodwater being released from Rengali Dam this year, highlighting the impact of increased inflow during the ongoing monsoon season.
Authorities are continuing to monitor rainfall, reservoir levels and inflow from the upper catchment areas. Further decisions on water discharge will depend on changing inflow and reservoir conditions.
