In a proactive measure to manage rising water levels due to heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas, authorities have opened 20 gates of the Hirakud Dam on the Mahanadi River, releasing 3.60 lakh cusecs of water. Officials have emphasised that there is no immediate threat of a major flood situation in the river basin.
Addressing a press conference in Bhubaneswar, Water Resources Department Chief Engineer Chandrashekhar Padhi stated that while water levels in tributary rivers are expected to rise, the overall flood risk remains low. “The situation is under control, particularly in the lower catchment areas where rainfall has been minimal. No flood alerts have been issued for any other rivers in the state,” Padhi assured.
The decision to open an additional four gates comes in light of intense rainfall upstream. Currently, the dam is discharging water at a steady rate to prevent overflow. By Friday morning, between 8 AM and 11 AM, an estimated 6 lakh cusecs of floodwater is projected to reach Munduli, a key monitoring point downstream.
While branch rivers such as the Shakh and others may see elevated water levels, Padhi clarified that this will not escalate into a flood scenario. “Reduced rainfall across the region has significantly mitigated the flood intensity,” he added.
The water release could impact 10 districts, including Sambalpur, Bargarh, Subarnapur, Balangir, Boudh, Nayagarh, Cuttack, Puri, and Jagatsinghpur. However, the administration has ramped up preparedness measures. Local officials have been instructed to remain vigilant, monitor discharge rates closely, and alert residents in low-lying villages. Evacuation plans are in place if water levels rise unexpectedly.
In related developments, the Baitarani River, which experienced its third flood wave this season, is now seeing receding water levels. Conditions in other rivers remain stable.
Padhi also highlighted the influence of an impending low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, which is expected to affect southern Odisha. To counter this, reservoirs in the southern districts will prioritise water conservation to ensure availability during potential dry spells.
“All departments are actively monitoring the situation round-the-clock,” the Chief Engineer said. “We urge the public to follow administration guidelines and stay informed through official channels to ensure safety.”
With the monsoon season winding down, these measures underscore Odisha’s robust flood management strategy, balancing water release for irrigation and power generation while safeguarding lives and property.
