Bhubaneswar, 25 September (H.S.) In response to heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas, authorities at the Hirakud Dam have opened four additional gates, bringing the total to 20, to release excess water. Around 3.6 lakh cusecs of water is currently being discharged, raising concerns of possible flooding in the Mahanadi River, informed Chandra Sekhar Padhy, Chief Engineer, Water Resources Department.

According to department officials, water discharge at Mundali is expected to peak between 8 am and 11 am on Friday, with an inflow of around 6 lakh cusecs. While no flood situation is anticipated in other rivers due to declining rainfall, a high alert has been issued for districts along the Mahanadi. Residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain cautious.

“Tributary levels are expected to rise, but the situation remains under control. Collectors of the affected districts have been instructed to stay alert and monitor developments closely,” said Padhy.

Meanwhile, South Odisha is likely to be impacted by the fresh low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal. Water reservoirs in the region are being regulated to conserve resources, while the state government has assured that all necessary precautions are being taken to safeguard people living in low-lying and flood-prone areas.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda