Bhubaneswar, Sept 4: Odisha is once again grappling with flood concerns as the Baitarani River has entered its third flood situation in the past three months, confirmed Chief Engineer of Water Resources Department, Chandra Shekhar Padhee. Continuous heavy rainfall in the upper catchments has pushed the river level to 0.5 meters above the danger mark at Akhuapada.

Padhee noted that other rivers, including the Subarnarekha, Budhabalanga, and upper Mahanadi, have also received significant rainfall, contributing to rising water levels. While the Mahanadi River is witnessing an increase in water flow, he clarified that the situation is not alarming and widespread flooding is not expected.

Meanwhile, the Hirakud Dam authorities have opened 14 sluice gates to release excess water. At present, the dam is recording an inflow of 2.15 lakh cusecs and a discharge of 1.33 lakh cusecs. Officials cautioned that the dam’s water level is likely to rise further in the coming days, and any decision on opening additional gates will depend on rainfall patterns and inflow conditions.

The Water Resources Department has assured that the situation is under constant monitoring, with necessary flood-control measures being implemented to minimize risks in vulnerable areas.

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