Hirakud Dam Begins Floodwater Discharge: What You Need to Know

Floodwater Discharge Initiated at Hirakud Dam

Sambalpur: On Sunday, the authorities at Hirakud Dam commenced the discharge of the year's initial floodwater from the reservoir.

According to sources, sluice gate No. 7 on the left spillway was opened at 10 AM following a traditional ritual and puja.

Heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas of the Mahanadi River and its tributaries has led to a significant increase in water inflow into the reservoir.

In response, the chief engineer and basin manager for the Mahanadi basin made the decision to start releasing excess floodwater through the sluice gates. Initially, between six to eight gates will be opened gradually, depending on the inflow volume.

However, the precise number of gates to be opened may vary based on real-time inflow conditions, as indicated by dam officials. As per annual tradition, a ceremonial event will take place at the dam control room prior to the gates being opened, featuring customary rituals. An invited guest will then activate the switch to commence the gate-opening process.

To ensure the safety of the public, sirens will be sounded every five minutes starting one hour before the discharge, alerting residents living along the banks of the Mahanadi and its tributaries.