Bhubaneswar: The Machkund Dam in Koraput district has reached near-capacity levels due to incessant rainfall over the past few days, prompting authorities to open two of its sluice gates as a precautionary measure.
The water level in the dam has now reached 2,588 feet, approaching the danger mark of 2,590 feet. The Water Resources Department has opened gates 6 and 7, releasing approximately 2,000 cusecs of water into the downstream Chitrakonda reservoir to ease pressure on the dam.
Currently, 1,000 cusecs of water are being released through gates 6 and 7 into the Chitrakonda reservoir. If the incessant rainfall continues, project authorities have warned that additional gates may need to be opened, said sources.
In anticipation of heavy rainfall, the concerned administration has been put on high alert. Meanwhile, officials are keeping a close watch on both the upstream and downstream areas to ensure everyone’s safety and preparedness.
