Bhubaneswar, 3 July (H.S.) Authorities have opened two sluice gates of the Machkund Dam in Odisha's Koraput district as a precautionary measure, following relentless rainfall that has pushed the water level near its maximum capacity.

According to the Water Resources Department, the dam's water level has reached 2,588 feet, just shy of the danger mark of 2,590 feet. To mitigate pressure on the reservoir, gates 6 and 7 were opened, releasing approximately 2,000 cusecs of water downstream into the Chitrakonda reservoir. Currently, about 1,000 cusecs of water are being discharged through these gates.

Officials stated that if heavy rainfall continues, additional sluice gates may be opened to maintain safe water levels. The district administration has been placed on high alert, and continuous monitoring is underway in both upstream and downstream areas to ensure public safety and effective response measures.

Residents in low-lying areas have been advised to stay alert, and emergency teams are on standby as part of the district’s preparedness plan.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda