The Hirakud Dam floodwater release will begin today as authorities prepare to open four gates at 11:00 AM, marking the season’s first controlled discharge of excess water from the reservoir. Officials have already issued alerts to residents living in downstream areas and advised them to remain cautious.
According to the latest reservoir data available at 6:00 AM, the water level stood at 614.65 feet. The dam recorded an inflow of 1,64,009 cusecs of water, while the outflow was 27,590 cusecs, prompting authorities to begin regulated water discharge.
Four Gates to Open First
As part of the initial phase of the floodwater release, four gates will be opened at 11:00 AM. Officials indicated that additional gates may be opened later in the evening if the reservoir’s water level continues to rise due to sustained inflow.
The controlled release is aimed at maintaining safe reservoir levels while ensuring smooth water management during the monsoon season.
Discharge May Reach 1 Lakh Cusecs
Authorities plan to gradually increase the discharge and may release up to 1 lakh cusecs of water depending on the inflow and changing reservoir conditions.
The release will be monitored continuously, and further operational decisions will be taken based on rainfall, upstream inflow, and the overall water level of the reservoir.
Downstream Areas on Alert
People living along the downstream stretch of the Mahanadi river have been alerted ahead of the release. Local administrations have advised residents to stay away from riverbanks and remain attentive to official announcements until the discharge process is completed safely.
Authorities are closely coordinating with district administrations to ensure timely communication and necessary precautionary measures in vulnerable areas.
With the Hirakud Dam floodwater release beginning today, officials will continue monitoring reservoir conditions and adjust the number of open gates if required to manage the increasing inflow during the monsoon.
