The Odisha government has intensified flood management measures after the Hirakud Dam opened 22 gates following a sharp rise in water inflow. Officials said the reservoir is receiving more than 4.15 lakh cusecs of water, prompting authorities to increase downstream discharge while closely monitoring the situation across vulnerable areas.
According to the Water Resources Department, the reservoir is currently recording an inflow of 4,15,017 cusecs, while approximately 3,89,000 cusecs of water is being released downstream. Two additional gates were opened on Saturday to regulate the rising water level and maintain reservoir safety.
Authorities monitor reservoir round the clock
Chief Engineer of the Water Resources Department, Dillip Raut, said the decision to open additional gates was taken to effectively manage the increasing inflow from the upper catchment areas.
Officials are conducting continuous monitoring of the reservoir and reviewing water levels at regular intervals to ensure safe dam operations. They added that gate operations may be revised further depending on future inflow trends.
Water flow at Khairmal expected to increase
The increased discharge from Hirakud Dam is expected to raise the water flow at Khairmal to nearly 7.5 lakh cusecs once the released water reaches downstream stretches.
Authorities are keeping a close watch on the Mahanadi river system and assessing the potential impact on low-lying and flood-prone areas along the basin. Continuous rainfall in the upstream catchment over the past few days has significantly increased inflow into the reservoir.
Administration issues advisory for downstream residents
As parts of Odisha continue to face flood-related challenges, district administrations have strengthened surveillance along the downstream stretches of the Mahanadi River.
Residents living near the river have been advised to remain alert, avoid entering the river, and follow official advisories issued by local authorities. Emergency teams are monitoring the situation to respond quickly if water levels rise further.
Officials said the number of open gates may increase or decrease depending on the volume of incoming water, with reservoir operations being adjusted to ensure balanced discharge and minimise flood risks.
