Hirakud to release first floodwater as Mahanadi water level rises

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Angul: Rainfall activity in Odisha may have subsided, but there has been an increased threat of flooding due to the steadily rising levels of the Mahanadi river.

The gates of the Hirakud Dam are expected to be opened on Thursaday, to release this year’s first floodwaters.

Water discharge from the dam, along with water from the upper catchments, is anticipated to cause a marginal increase in the Mahanadi river’s and the tributary rivers’ water levels.

Residents of areas located in lower-lying zones have already been warned by authorities.

The growing river is gradually disrupting life in several parts of the state.

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For example, the Majhipada-Gaindi road within the Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary is already submerged in three feet of water, thereby interrupting road links.

The consequence of this blockage is that the three villages that fall within Tikarpada Panchayat have been effectively isolated, leaving inhabitants cut off from the rest of the state.

The movement of vehicles and people is now hampered, due to this submerged route.

Emergency preparedness teams and rescue operations have been readied by the authorities, who are closely monitoring the evolution of the situation.

People residing near the banks of the river have been alerted and have been asked to take necessary precautions based on directives from the administration.

Also read: Watch: 30-Foot Breach In Kani River Embankment As Baitarani Floodwaters Hit Jajpur

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