Odisha: Following the active monsoon and continuous rainfall in the upper catchment areas, the Hirakud Dam administration has decided to release the first floodwater of the season. According to officials, water will be released from the Hirakud Reservoir into the Mahanadi River at around 11 am on July 9, 2026. A flood alert has been issued in the concerned districts in view of the release.
The Additional Chief Engineer of the Hirakud Dam Circle stated that the inflow of water into the reservoir is continuously increasing. Due to rainfall in the upper catchment areas, the dam’s water level is being monitored. Water will be released in a controlled manner, keeping safety and water management in mind.
Vigilance Increased in Downstream Mahanadi Areas
The release of water from the Hirakud Dam may cause a rise in the water level in the lower Mahanadi River. In view of this, the administration has advised people living along the river banks to remain vigilant.
Officials stated that the water release process will be completely controlled and the situation will be continuously monitored. In this regard, the concerned departments have already been instructed to be prepared.
The administration has appealed to the public to avoid going near the river banks and not engage in any risky activities.
Instructions given to the district administration and departments
Hirakud Dam officials have directed the district administration, police department, municipal corporation, and other related departments to take necessary precautionary measures.
Officials have been asked to ensure security in their respective areas and be prepared to deal with a possible flood situation.
In addition, instructions have been given to evacuate people living in the lower reaches of the river and any ongoing activities there. This is aimed at preventing any loss of life or property during the flood.
People advised to move to safer places
The administration has advised people living in villages and low-lying areas along the Mahanadi to remain vigilant. Arrangements can be made to evacuate people if necessary.
Officials stated that public safety is the top priority. Therefore, all departments have been asked to work in coordination with each other.
Instructions have also been given to ensure the availability of necessary resources for relief and rescue operations in a flood-like situation.
Water Levels Being Constantly Monitored
Hirakud Dam is one of the country’s major multi-purpose dams and plays a vital role in the water management of the Mahanadi. During the monsoon, the inflow and water level in the dam are constantly monitored.
According to officials, rainfall in the upper catchment areas is currently increasing the water level in the reservoir. Therefore, a controlled release of water becomes necessary to maintain the dam’s safety.
Water Resources Department officials are continuously monitoring weather conditions and river flow.
Flood Management Preparations Intensify
Following the announcement of water release, the administration has intensified flood management preparations. Preparations are underway to deploy officials in potentially affected areas, activate communication systems, and activate emergency services.
Police and local administration have been instructed to keep people away from the river and waterlogged areas.
Municipal bodies have also been asked to monitor waterlogging in low-lying areas and make necessary arrangements.
Caution Based on Past Experiences
Every year, water is released from the Hirakud Dam during the monsoon. However, all safety aspects are reviewed before releasing water.
Officials say that this time too, water will be released with utmost caution. People need not panic, but it is extremely important to follow the administration’s instructions.
They said that all departments have been prepared to deal with flood situations and immediate action will be taken in case of any emergency.
People along the Mahanadi River have been appealed to remain vigilant
The administration has appealed to people living along the Mahanadi River to ignore rumors and rely only on official information.
People have been advised to prevent children and the elderly from going to the river banks and to follow flood-related instructions.
Currently, the Hirakud Dam administration has completed preparations for the release of water on July 9th. Further decisions will be made based on rainfall conditions and water levels in the upper reaches.
The administration’s priority is to protect the dam as well as the lives and property of the people living along the Mahanadi River.
