The Hirakud Dam authorities released the first floodwater of the season today, July 6, 2025, at 10:21 am, following a steady rise in the water level due to heavy rainfall in the catchment areas. The water was released through 12 gates, with 8 gates on the left side and 4 gates on the right side of the reservoir.
- Water Level: The water level of the Hirakud reservoir stood at 609.54 feet as of 9:25 am today, with an inflow of 2,01,316 cusecs of water every second.
- Warning and Safety Measures: A warning siren was sounded before releasing the water, and the district administration officials were present during the water release. The authorities have advised people to be cautious about entering the river and other uses due to the possibility of rising water levels in the Mahanadi and its tributaries.
- Preparations: The Hirakud reservoir authorities had informed the public in advance about the water release, and a large crowd gathered at Hirakud to witness the event.
The Hirakud Dam authorities had announced earlier that the water level of the reservoir had reached 603 feet, prompting the need to release excess water. The decision to release water was taken to ensure the safety of the dam and downstream areas ³.