Odisha: Hirakud dam gates to open today for releasing excess water

Sambalpur: Sluice gates of the Hirakud dam in Odisha’s Sambalpur district will be opened today to release excess water from the reservoir due to heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas, dam authorities informed.

A total of six gates will be opened, phase-wise. While siren will be blown from 3 PM, the water will be released at 5 PM.

The authorities have advised people not to venture into river. The water to be released from the dam is expected to reach Mundali in Cuttack in 36 hours.

Water levels in major rivers of Odisha are rising while Jalaka river has already crossed the danger level following heavy rainfall across the state due to the depression, resulting in flood-like situation in several areas.

As per latest information, Jalaka was flowing at 6.22 mark and rising at Mathani in Balasore district at 9 AM against the danger level of 5.50. Similarly, Baitarani river was flowing at 17.84 mark and rising at Akhuapada at 9 AM against danger level of 17.83.

Other rivers which witnessed rising water level are Mahanadi, Devi, Brahmani, IB, Budhabalanga, Subarnarekha, Vansadhara and Rushikulya.

Incessant rainfall in the state has resulted in inundation and waterlogging in many low-lying areas. Talcher received highest rainfall of 394 mm during the last 24 hours.

In view of the heavy rainfall across Odisha, Special Relief Commissioner PK Jena has instructed all Collectors to evacuate people from waterlogged areas.

The officials have been directed to opt evacuation and make prompt arrangements in this regard in case water enters into villages and habitations.

They also have been asked to provide cooked/ dry food and other basic things to such people as per the relief code.

Further instructions have been given to the Collectors that in case of any damage to communication/ roads occur, the same be forthwith restored for effecting communication at the earliest.

Over 19.53 lakh people in 11 districts of Odisha have been affected by heavy rains in the state since Sunday morning.