Bhubaneswar, Sept 25: Amid continuous rainfall in the upper catchment areas, the Hirakud Dam authorities have opened four additional gates, taking the total to 20, to release excess water. Currently, around 3.6 lakh cusecs of water are being discharged, informed Chandra Sekhar Padhy, Chief Engineer of the Water Resources Department. 

He expressed concern that the situation may intensify due to another low-pressure system forming over the Bay of Bengal, which could lead to a possible flood in the Mahanadi River basin.

According to the department, water discharge at Mundali is likely to increase significantly, with nearly 6 lakh cusecs of water expected to pass through between 8 am and 11 am on Friday. Although reduced rainfall has ruled out flooding in other rivers, high alerts have been sounded in districts located along the Mahanadi. Residents have been advised to remain cautious.

Padhy added that while water levels in tributaries may rise, the situation remains under control. Collectors of vulnerable districts have been instructed to stay vigilant and closely monitor developments. Meanwhile, reservoirs in South Odisha will conserve water as the low-pressure system brings fresh rainfall.

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