Cyclone Impact / Jalaput Reservoir Water Level Rises, Two Dam Gates Opened

Koraput, Oct 29: Continuous rainfall under the influence of Cyclone Arnab has significantly increased water inflow into the Jalaput Reservoir in Odisha’s Koraput district, prompting authorities to open two gates of the diversion dam while closely monitoring the overall situation.

Officials said that as of 7 am on Thursday, the water level in the Jalaput Reservoir stood at 2,748.85 feet, with a storage capacity of 30.570 TMC.

The reservoir is currently receiving around 36,000 cusecs of water per second, while nearly 25,000 cusecs are being discharged.

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To regulate the rising water level, gates number 6 and 7 of the diversion dam have been opened by 12 feet each.

Around 24,000 cusecs of water is being released through these gates every second. The diversion dam's water level has reached 2,585.2 feet. Meanwhile, all three units of the hydroelectric project are operational, generating a combined 51 MW of electricity.

Heavy rainfall continues across Koraput district. According to the District Emergency Office, the district recorded a cumulative rainfall of 622.9 mm during the last 24 hours, with an average rainfall of 44.49 mm.

Narayanpatna received the highest rainfall at 114.4 mm, followed by Pattangi with 100.1 mm and Laxmipur with 95.1 mm. Several other blocks also recorded substantial rainfall.

The persistent downpour has increased the risk of landslides in vulnerable hill regions. Landslides have been reported along the Salur-Shunki ghat road, where soil and debris from hill slopes have fallen onto roadways.

Retaining walls have been damaged at several locations, and uprooted trees have further hampered movement.

Another landslide was reported on the road leading to the Deomali mountain range near Kinduli Chhak. Authorities fear that continued rainfall could disrupt transportation and pose safety risks for commuters.

District officials are closely monitoring the evolving situation and have advised residents to remain cautious and follow official instructions as rainfall is expected to continue over the coming hours.