Sambalpur, Jul 5: In Odisha's Sambalpur district, the water level of the Hirakud Dam is steadily rising following the opening of the Kalma gate on the Mahanadi river.

Authorities have announced that six additional gates will be opened on Sunday after the ceremonial puja, based on a thorough assessment of the water levels in the Ib river and other connected rivers.

Chandrasekhar Padhy, Chief Engineer of the Water Resources Department, confirmed that the current water levels remain below the danger mark.

“As of now, there is no flood threat, even with persistent rainfall in surrounding areas,” said Padhy. He assured the public that dam discharges will be carefully calibrated after evaluating downstream river conditions.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that the region will remain dry for the next week, helping ease flood concerns.

The rainfall analysis across southern Odisha shows stable river behaviour. For instance, the Rushikulya river near Purushottampur is reportedly flowing five meters below the danger level, and the Bansadhara river’s levels are also decreasing.

Meanwhile, hydrological assessments are being conducted at Rengali to closely monitor its water level trends. These ongoing evaluations are part of a broader safety protocol to ensure timely response in case of unexpected weather changes.

With all agencies on alert and the situation under control, residents near river banks are being advised to stay informed through official channels and avoid spreading panic. Authorities continue to emphasize that flood risk is currently minimal and all water release decisions will be made with public safety as the top priority.

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