Bhubaneswar, 06 August (H.S.): Authorities on Wednesday opened eight sluice gates of the Hirakud Dam to regulate rising water levels following increased inflow into the reservoir. Of the eight gates, five were opened on the left spillway and three on the right at around 9 am.

According to dam officials, the reservoir level stood at 614.31 feet. The average inflow was recorded at 1,00,581 cusecs and rising, while the outflow stood at 1,56,753 cusecs and was on a declining trend.

Out of the total discharge, 1,21,760 cusecs was released through the spillway, 30,987 cusecs via the power channel, 229 cusecs for industrial use, and 3,777 cusecs through canals.

Downstream discharge levels were recorded at multiple points, including Belgaon (21,500 cusecs), Patharla (40,934 cusecs), Khairmal (2,37,000 cusecs), Barmul (2,83,000 cusecs), and Mundali (3,94,384 cusecs).

Cumulative rainfall was measured at 24.4 mm in Hirakud and 12.8 mm in Burla. Officials said the situation is being closely monitored to ensure effective water management and downstream safety.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda