Bhubaneswar, Jul 28: Amid heavy monsoon rains, Odisha is grappling with rising water levels across major rivers and reservoirs.

The Hirakud Dam in Sambalpur has opened 20 sluice gates to release excess water, with the water level recorded at 615.31 feet as of 6 am on Monday. The dam is receiving 3.65 lakh cusecs of inflow and discharging 3.46 lakh cusecs per second, prompting authorities to remain on high alert.

The release is part of a controlled flood management strategy, as rainfall in upper catchment areas continues. While officials have assured there’s no immediate danger, downstream regions along the Mahanadi River have been advised to stay vigilant.

In Bhadrak district, the Baitarani River has surged past the danger mark at Akhuapada, triggering floods in low-lying areas. Villages in Dhamnagar and Bhandaripokhari blocks are among the worst affected, with water entering homes, farmlands, and roads. In response, the district administration has declared a two-day school holiday in four panchayats — Padhani, Sohada, Arjunpur, and Hasanabad — to ensure student safety.

District Collector Dilip Routray confirmed that ODRAF teams are on standby and temporary shelters have been activated. Rescue operations are underway, and awareness campaigns are being conducted to evacuate vulnerable populations.

Meanwhile, in Puri district, the state government has initiated flood preparedness measures. The Fire Services Department has mobilized vehicles and equipment, and all leaves for fire personnel have been cancelled. A dedicated team from the Water Resources Department is inspecting embankments and riverbanks to assess vulnerabilities.

The situation remains dynamic, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting continued rainfall across Odisha. Authorities are closely monitoring river basins and coordinating with district administrations to mitigate risks.

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