Bhubaneswar – Even as the upper catchment areas of Odisha continue to receive heavy rainfall, the state remains free from any immediate flood threat. Chandra Sekhar Padhi, Engineer-in-Chief of the Water Resources Department, has assured that the situation is well under control, especially in the Mahanadi and Brahmani river systems.
Addressing the media on Sunday, Padhi clarified that although the upper basin of the Mahanadi River has witnessed considerable rainfall, there has been no significant impact on the lower basin. As a result, no downstream flood conditions have been reported in Odisha. Similarly, the Brahmani River remains stable, with no signs of overflowing.
To manage the increased water inflow, 12 sluice gates of the Hirakud Dam are being opened in phases. The current water level at Hirakud stands at 609 feet, which is comfortably within safe limits. Around 2 lakh cusecs of water will be gradually released to regulate the reservoir levels. Officials remain confident that even with further inflows from neighbouring Chhattisgarh, downstream regions will not face any danger.
In parallel, the Rengali Dam has opened one of its gates, following continued rainfall in its upper basin. However, no unusual rise has been noted in the Brahmani River, indicating a stable condition.
While there is no cause for alarm, authorities are maintaining vigilance in low-lying areas near Rajghat in Balasore district, where the Subarnarekha River is flowing just below the danger mark. Regular monitoring is underway to ensure the safety of residents in vulnerable zones.
Padhi reiterated that precautionary measures are in place, and the situation is being closely monitored across all river systems. With proactive dam management and consistent oversight, the state remains safe from any flood emergency for now.
