The Indravati Reservoir in Nabarangpur district has opened one of its gates after nearly seven years, amid forecasts of increased rainfall under the influence of a developing low-pressure system.
Of the reservoir’s seven gates, Gate No. 6 has been opened by 0.5 metres to release water downstream.
The move comes as authorities anticipate a possible increase in rainfall and inflow into the reservoir over the coming days.
Water Level Reaches 640.3 Metres
According to reports, the maximum water-holding level of the Indravati Reservoir is 642 metres.
The reservoir’s water level had reached approximately 640.3 metres as of Monday morning.
With the water level approaching the reservoir’s maximum level and rainfall expected in the region, authorities decided to open one of the gates as a precautionary measure.
The situation is being closely monitored, with officials keeping track of rainfall, inflow and changes in the reservoir’s water level.
Gate No. 6 Opened By 0.5 Metres
The reservoir has seven gates, of which Gate No. 6 has currently been opened by 0.5 metres.
The controlled release is intended to manage the reservoir’s water level in anticipation of additional inflow from rainfall.
Officials are expected to assess the situation continuously and take further decisions depending on the volume of rainfall and the amount of water entering the reservoir.
Downstream Areas Put On Alert
Following the opening of the gate, authorities have alerted people living in downstream areas.
Residents have been advised to exercise caution and avoid going near river channels, streams and other water bodies, where water levels could rise following the release.
People in vulnerable areas have also been advised to follow instructions issued by local authorities and remain alert to any further developments.
Low-Pressure System Behind Decision
The decision to release water has been taken amid forecasts of rainfall associated with a low-pressure system.
Vedambar Behera, Chief Engineer of the Indravati-Kolab Basin in Koraput, said the gate was opened considering the rainfall expected under the influence of the weather system.
According to the official, authorities will continue to monitor the reservoir’s water level and inflow.
Further decisions regarding the operation of the gates will depend on rainfall activity, inflow into the reservoir and the reservoir’s water level.
Authorities Monitoring Reservoir Situation
The opening of the gate after nearly seven years has drawn attention as authorities prepare for potentially increased rainfall in the region.
For now, the water release is being carried out in a controlled manner, while officials continue to assess weather and hydrological conditions.
Residents in downstream areas have been urged to remain cautious as the situation develops.
