Sambalpur: The Hirakud Dam authorities on Friday opened 12 gates to discharge excess flood water into the Mahanadi river, officials said.
According to dam authorities, 8 gates on the left side and 4 gates on the right side of the dam were opened for release.
Two gates were opened in the morning, and 10 more gates were opened at 10 AM.
Officials said more gates are likely to be opened after 2.00 PM depending on the inflow situation.
The current average inflow into the reservoir is 3,86,272 cusec, while the average outflow stands at 65,924 cusec.
With heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas, the water level in Hirakud is being closely monitored. The district administrations of downstream districts have been alerted to take precautionary measures.
Dam authorities have urged people living in low-lying areas along the Mahanadi to remain vigilant and avoid going near riverbanks.
