Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), July 31: Heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas of the Mahanadi River led to the opening of 20 sluice gates at Hirakud Dam last Sunday. However, the situation has stabilized, and as of Wednesday, two gates have been closed, according to Dam authorities.
Currently, 18 sluice gates are open, releasing floodwater. The closure of the two gates has resulted in a decrease in the water level of the Mahanadi River near Mundali in Cuttack, sources reported.
As of this morning, the water level at Hirakud Dam is at 611.85 feet. The dam is receiving 157,272 cusecs of water while releasing 309,740 cusecs. Out of the total sluice gates, 12 on the left side and 6 on the right side remain open. The water level in the Mahanadi River at Mundali has decreased since last night.
The highest discharge recorded was 485,430 cusecs at midnight, which has since reduced to 480,000 cusecs by 6 am today. The water level in Mundali is reported to be 87.80 feet upstream and 84.90 feet downstream, suggesting a low likelihood of further water level rise. Senior officials have indicated that the risk of moderate flooding is now minimal.
