Bhubaneswar, Aug 1: The Odisha government and Hirakud reservoir authorities have decided to close six gates of the Hirakud Dam due to a drop in water inflow into the reservoir. This decision comes after a noticeable decrease in water levels caused by reduced rainfall in the upper and lower catchment areas of the Mahanadi river system.

Currently, flood water is being discharged through 14 gates of the reservoir. Authorities announced on Thursday the decision to close some gates of the Hirakud Dam.

As a result of closing these gates, water levels in the Mundali barrage have decreased, reducing the risk of flooding, according to reliable reports.

Officials noted that the Hirakud Dam in Odisha’s Sambalpur district began releasing this season's flood water on July 28, following a ceremonial puja held at 8 am. A total of 20 sluice gates were opened in phases.

The State Relief Commissioner (SRC) had instructed the Collectors of Sambalpur, Sonepur, Nayagarh, Puri, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, and Kendrapara to remain alert and monitor the situation.

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