In a significant development for Odisha’s irrigation infrastructure, the Lower Suktel Dam in Balangir district has begun releasing its first floodwaters of the year, marking a crucial step in flood management and water distribution.
The release comes after intense monsoon rains filled the reservoir to near capacity, prompting authorities to open five of the dam’s 12 gates on Sunday evening.
The decision followed traditional rituals and puja ceremonies at 4 PM, as per local customs. Prior to the release, the dam’s water level had reached 199 meters, approaching its full storage capacity of 210 meters. Heavy downpours since September 22 had rapidly replenished the reservoir, which had been critically low until then, raising doubts about whether it would fill this season. As of the latest update, the water level stands at 198.58 meters, with projections indicating a further drop of approximately one meter in the coming hours.
Currently, the five open gates are discharging around 250 cubic meters per second (cumecs) of water, while an inflow of 120 cumecs continues from upstream areas due to ongoing rains. Project Chief Engineer Surendra Bhoi confirmed that this controlled release is essential to prevent overflow and mitigate downstream risks. However, the sudden surge had already caused minor flooding in upstream villages like Kumiaripali on Saturday night, where water inundated homes and the local temple. A few families remain in the village, refusing relocation despite government compensation offers, putting their lives at risk.
This year’s timely filling of the dam contrasts with previous seasons plagued by erratic monsoons. Notably, the project trapped its first floodwaters in June 2023, but full operations were delayed until its inauguration by then-Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on January 3, 2024. Even after commissioning, farmers in the command area—spanning about 40,000 hectares—had been deprived of irrigation due to incomplete pipeline works and dry runs.
Trial Run Brings Cheers to Farmers with Pipeline Water Release
Adding to the positive momentum, the Lower Suktel project has initiated its first trial run of pressurised pipeline irrigation this kharif season, delivering water directly to farmers’ fields for the first time. With the reservoir level hitting 199 meters, authorities pumped water through underground pipelines (UGPL) from the pump houses, bypassing traditional open canals.
Engineers had conducted two dry runs over the past three years amid construction delays, but success finally arrived today. “Farmers are thrilled as water reaches their fields via pipes, ensuring efficient irrigation,” said Chief Engineer Bhoi. The southern pipeline, handled by L&T at a cost of ₹1,050 crore, originates from the Khuntpali pump house, while the northern arm, executed by Megha Engineering at ₹650 crore, starts from Dunguripali near Gadshank.
This underground system is designed to modernise irrigation across Balangir and neighbouring districts, reducing water wastage and enabling precise distribution. While full coverage will take time, select areas in the 40,000-hectare command zone are already benefiting this season, boosting crop prospects amid the late monsoon revival.
The Lower Suktel project, a long-awaited lifeline for drought-prone Balangir, underscores Odisha’s push toward sustainable water management. As releases continue, officials urge downstream residents to stay vigilant, with monitoring teams on high alert.
