Munduli, Jul 8: The season’s first floodwaters released from Hirakud Dam in Sambalpur have reached the Mundali barrage, prompting heightened vigilance across downstream districts.

The release follows heavy rainfall in upstream regions that has significantly raised the water level in key rivers across the state.

Currently, water is being discharged through 20 gates of the Hirakud Dam.

As of 6 AM, the dam's water level stood at 608.04 feet. With persistent rainfall in upper catchment areas, the inflow rate has surged to approximately 2,33,824 cusecs, while the outflow through the gates is around 3,32,491 cusecs.

Officials confirm that the downstream area remains safe for now, but warn that continued rain upstream could necessitate further discharge from the dam—potentially triggering flood-like conditions in low-lying regions.

District administrations, including Cuttack, have activated flood control rooms and issued alerts to riverside communities. While the water is currently flowing below danger levels, officials remain cautious due to continued rainfall in Chhattisgarh and northern Odisha

Local authorities are closely monitoring the situation and advising residents along riverbanks to stay alert. Relief teams are being readied as a precautionary measure.

read more Odisha News