Bhubaneswar: The Hirakud Dam authorities have closed four gates following a decrease in the water level, attributed to reduced rainfall in the upper catchment areas of the Mahanadi Basin. Currently, the dam is releasing water through 16 gates.
Earlier, the dam had released the season’s first floodwater through 20 gates on Sunday in response to sustained heavy rainfall over the Mahanadi basin. However, with the decrease in rainfall, the dam authorities have adjusted the gate openings to maintain a safe water level.
According to officials, there is no immediate threat of flooding in downstream areas. The situation is being closely monitored, and additional gate openings may be made depending on updated rainfall and river data. The authorities remain vigilant and prepared to respond to any changes in the water level or rainfall patterns in the region.