Sambalpur: First Floodwater Discharge of 2025 Underway at Hirakud Dam
Key Points
Hirakud Gate Opened: First flood release of 2025 begins with 12 gates to be operated in phased sequences to manage rising inflows.
Heavy upstream inflow from Chhattisgarh has elevated reservoir levels in Hirakud and Rangali reservoirs.
Flood warnings sent to vulnerable districts including Tal Munda; sirens deployed for early alerts.
Sambalpur, Jul 6: In response to increasing water levels in the Mahanadi basin, Hirakud Dam authorities have initiated this year’s first floodwater release operation.
Following traditional puja rituals early this morning, gate number 7 was ceremonially opened to begin the discharge. A total of 12 gates will be opened — 8 on the left side and 4 on the right — to control the inflow surge and ease pressure on the reservoir.
As of 9:00 am, the water level stood at 609.54 feet, against the full reservoir level of 630 feet. The dam is currently receiving an inflow of 2,01,316 cusecs. With swelling rivers upstream, particularly after increased flow from Chhattisgarh’s Kalma Barrage, authorities are keeping a close watch on water dynamics.
Siren systems were activated before gate openings to alert residents. Dam authorities have stressed that further action will be taken based on real-time hydrological assessments. Local administrations have been instructed to implement safety protocols and ensure public awareness in vulnerable zones.
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Meanwhile, the Rangali reservoir in Angul district, Odisha’s second-largest water body, has also commenced floodwater release through gates 8 and 9, prompted by the same rise in upstream inflow.
Officials have issued precautionary advisories for downstream regions, especially in Tal Munda and surrounding low-lying areas, where flood threats loom.
This controlled discharge marks a key step in Odisha’s flood preparedness strategy for the monsoon season.
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