Sambalpur: Ten sluice gates of Hirakud Dam were closed Friday. However, the release of water is continuing through 10 other gates, dam authority sources said.
With the water level being well above the danger mark of the dam, the authorities had decided to release water. Accordingly gates were opened August 14 in phases as the inflow into the reservoir continued due to incessant rains in the upper catchment area. Sixteen gates were opened Thursday.
However, in spite of the release of water, flood situation has not cropped up in the downstream areas. The, officials however, had warned the people living downstream well before the release of water asking them to take preventive measures.
In spite of that, the Collectors of the coastal districts like Sambalpur, Bargarh, Sonepur, Angul, Boudh, Nayagarh, Cuttack, Phulbani, Khordha, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur and Puri have been directed to remain alert to tackle any emergency situation if it arises.
PNN