Bhubaneswar: The Hirakud Dam authorities have opened four additional gates to release excess water due to heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas. Currently, 20 gates are open, releasing 3.6 lakh cusecs of water, informed Chandra Sekhar Padhy, Chief Engineer of the Water Resources Department expressing concern over a possible flood in the Mahanadi River due to heavy rainfall due to formation of another low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal.
According to the Water Resources Department, the water discharge at Mundali is expected to cause a surge in water levels. The department expects 6 lakh cusecs of water to flow into Mundali between 8 am and 11 am on Friday. Though no flood situation is anticipated in other rivers due to reduced rainfall, the Department issued high alerts for districts along the Mahanadi River, advising residents to remain cautious.
“While the water level in tributaries is expected to rise, the situation is under control. Collectors in affected districts have been instructed to remain alert and monitor the situation closely”, said Padhy.
Meanwhile, South Odisha is expected to be affected by the low-pressure system, and water reservoirs in the region will conserve water accordingly. The state government is taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of people living in the surrounding areas.
