Sambalpur, Jul 4: The Hirakud Dam authorities have announced that it will release season’s first floodwater on July 6 following a special puja ritual.

According to reports, the water will be released from Gate No. 7 on Sunday, July 6, at 10 AM

The move comes as water levels in the reservoir have reached 605.27 feet, with an inflow rate of 1,71,710 cusecs per second.

To ensure public safety, warning sirens have been activated at the dam's lower periphery, and authorities have asked the Collectors of 12 districts, located in the lower basin of the Mahanadi river, to remain alert and take the necessary steps in this regard.

On the other hand, the public has been strictly prohibited from entering the river areas as a precautionary measure.

Officials have emphasised that the discharge is part of a routine flood control exercise and that all necessary safety protocols have been put in place.

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