Bhubaneswar, Aug 1: The flood situation in Odisha has improved considerably, with the Water Resources Department on Saturday confirming that there is no longer any major flood threat in the Mahanadi river system. Officials said water levels in the state's major rivers are steadily receding, bringing much-needed relief after days of heavy rainfall and flooding.

Engineer-in-Chief (EIC) of the Water Resources Department Dilip Rout said the flood had reached its peak two days ago and was effectively managed through timely regulation of water discharge from the Hirakud Dam, preventing a major downstream flood.

According to Rout, the water level at the Hirakud reservoir stood at 625 feet, while inflows from the upper catchment areas have declined significantly. Although 22 gates of the dam remain open, no further changes in gate operations are expected over the next two days. The reservoir level is likely to fall to around 618 feet by August 3.

He said there is no flood situation at Mundali, though waterlogging may continue in low-lying areas of Puri, Khordha, Jagatsinghpur and Kendrapara districts. Water levels in other major rivers, including the Baitarani, have also fallen below the danger mark.

The Engineer-in-Chief informed that seven embankment breaches were reported during the recent floods. Repair work will begin once funds are released by the State Relief Commissioner, with temporary restoration planned before the next spell of heavy rainfall.

Powered by Froala Editor