Sambalpur, Aug 24: Amid heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas of Chhattisgarh, authorities at the Hirakud Dam have opened eight sluice gates to manage the increasing water inflow.

As of 6:00 AM today, the reservoir’s water level stood at 621.58 feet, approaching its full capacity of 630 feet.

The dam is currently receiving an inflow of approximately 233,478 cusecs of water per second, while the outflow through the eight open gates is measured at 161,677 cusecs per second.

Notably on Saturday, officials have opened four gates to release the excess water.

Residents along the Mahanadi riverbanks have been advised to remain vigilant and avoid venturing into the river, as downstream water levels are expected to surge.

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This marks the second phase of floodwater discharge this season, with the first occurring in early July when 20 gates were opened simultaneously.