The flood situation in Odisha has worsened with heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas of the Mahanadi river system.
Authorities at Hirakud Dam have opened four more sluice gates, taking the total to 12, to release excess water as the reservoir level rose sharply.
Officials have issued alerts to residents in low‑lying areas downstream of the Mahanadi, urging vigilance and precautionary measures.
Meanwhile, the Baitarani river has started swelling again due to continuous rains. At Akhuapada, the water level has touched the warning mark, sparking panic among locals. Villages in Bhandari Pokhari and Dhamnagar blocks of Bhadrak district face the risk of inundation.
Farmers fear their farmlands may be submerged, while district administrations have been instructed to remain on high alert. Water Resources Department officials are monitoring embankments and have advised people in vulnerable areas to move to safer locations if necessary. Relief and rescue teams have been kept on standby to respond to any emergency.
