The Hirakud Dam in Sambalpur, Odisha, is set to have its gates opened today due to rising water levels caused by incessant rains in the upper reaches of the Mahanadi basin. The Hirakud Dam Authority has issued an alert advising people to avoid entering the Mahanadi River.
Current Situation
- Water Level: The Hirakud reservoir's water level is at 620 feet.
- Water Inflow: 2,43,831 cusecs of water are entering the reservoir every second.
- Gates Opening: More than 4 gates could be opened in the first phase.
Alerts and Precautions
- River Safety: The dam authority has warned people not to enter the Mahanadi River.
- Heavy Rainfall Alert: The Meteorological Department predicts a low-pressure area forming in the north-west Bay of Bengal and Gangetic West Bengal by August 25, with heavy rain alerts issued for various districts until August 27.