In response to increasing inflows and to prevent flooding, authorities at Hirakud Dam have opened 16 sluice gates to discharge excess water.
This includes 11 gates on the left bank and five on the right bank, facilitating the release of 2,68,469 cusecs of water per second into the downstream areas.
The current reservoir level at the dam is recorded at 605.39 feet, approaching the full capacity of 630 feet. Meanwhile, inflows continue at a rate of 2,41,252 cusecs per second. Of the discharged volume, 2,31,664 cusecs are being routed through the spillway and 33,570 cusecs are diverted via the power channel.
Hirakud Dam, comprising a total of 98 gates — including 64 sluice and 34 crest gates — plays a critical role in flood control and hydroelectric power generation in Odisha.
Local administration has issued alerts in low-lying regions downstream, urging residents to remain cautious. The Water Resources Department is closely monitoring the situation as continued rainfall in catchment areas may necessitate further action.
