Sambalpur: The Hirakud Dam in Odisha’s Sambalpur district opened five additional gates on Monday as the inflow of floodwater into the reservoir continued to rise. With the latest opening, water is now being released through seven gates of the dam.
The decision was taken as increasing inflow from the upper catchment areas pushed the reservoir water level closer to its full capacity. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and downstream water levels as the release continues.
Seven Hirakud Gates Now Open
Earlier, authorities had opened two gates of the Hirakud reservoir to regulate the rising water level. However, with a significant increase in inflow, five more gates were opened on Monday.
Water is currently being discharged through all seven open gates as officials work to maintain the reservoir level within a safe range.
The increasing discharge has also prompted authorities to maintain heightened surveillance over areas downstream of the dam.
Reservoir Water Level Reaches 619.2 Feet
According to the latest information, the Hirakud reservoir water level stood at 619.2 feet at 9 am, while its full reservoir level is 630 feet.
The reservoir was receiving around 2,01,240 cusecs of water per second, while the outflow was approximately 1,42,284 cusecs per second.
The substantial difference between inflow and outflow has led authorities to closely monitor the reservoir, particularly as rainfall continues in the upper catchment areas.
Authorities Monitor Flood Situation
The rising inflow into the Hirakud reservoir has increased the focus on flood management in downstream areas.
Officials are continuously assessing the inflow, outflow and reservoir water level and are prepared to take further action depending on the changing weather and hydrological conditions.
Authorities may consider opening additional gates if the inflow continues to increase and the reservoir level approaches critical levels.
Residents in downstream areas are expected to remain cautious as water discharge from the dam can increase river levels. Officials are monitoring the situation to ensure that necessary measures can be taken promptly if conditions deteriorate.
The latest development comes amid continued rainfall in several parts of Odisha, with the upper catchment areas contributing to the increased inflow into the Hirakud reservoir.
