Bhubaneswar: On Friday afternoon, authorities opened two additional gates at the Hirakud Dam located in Sambalpur district, bringing the total number of operational gates to 14 due to significant rainfall and increased water inflows in the Mahanadi basin catchment areas.

Currently, floodwater is being released through nine sluice gates on the left spillway and five on the right spillway. This ongoing water discharge is anticipated to elevate the water levels in the downstream Mahanadi river.

The district administration has urged residents in low-lying regions along the river to stay vigilant and take appropriate precautions.

As of early Friday, the reservoir level was recorded at 623.52 feet, just shy of its full capacity of 630 feet, with inflows still continuing. The dam was receiving about 369,322 cusecs of water per second, while approximately 65,543 cusecs were being released downstream.

State water resources officials have confirmed that the flood situation at the Mundali Barrage on the Mahanadi remains under control, assuring that the delta region is completely safe.

During an assessment at the barrage, the Additional Chief Engineer reassured reporters that the controlled operations of the dam’s gates would effectively manage the water levels, preventing any adverse impact on downstream areas. He stated, “Everything is completely under control, and the water levels have started falling down. There is no issue at present. Water flow is around 8.65 lakh cusecs; with gates operational, water discharge is being managed effectively, and conditions are steadily improving.”

At 11 am, the river gauge in Naraj, located in the Kataka district, registered 26.48 meters, slightly above the danger threshold of 26.41 meters.

Officials indicated that higher authorities have directed engineering teams and field personnel to remain alert and continuously monitor the situation during the discharge process. “The entire delta area is secure right now, and no untoward incidents or breaches have been reported. Our teams are stationed and on high alert at all critical border points to monitor the situation round the clock,” the official added.