Bhubaneswar, 04 July (H.S.): The Koraput district administration on Saturday opened one gate of the Machkund Dam reservoir following a steady rise in the water level caused by continuous heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas.

This marks the first release of excess water from the Machkund Dam during the current year. The discharged water is being channelled downstream towards the Chitrakonda reservoir as a precautionary measure to maintain safe reservoir levels.

According to official sources, the Machkund Dam has a maximum storage capacity of 2,590 feet. The reservoir's water level has now reached 2,587 feet, prompting the authorities to open one gate to regulate the inflow and prevent any further rise beyond the safe limit.

The decision comes amid persistent heavy rainfall across several parts of southern Odisha over the past few days, significantly increasing inflows into the reservoir.

Officials said the reservoir's water level is being monitored round the clock, and further decisions regarding the operation of additional gates will be taken based on rainfall intensity and inflow conditions to ensure public safety and effective water management.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda