Bhubaneswar: Odisha Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari on Tuesday assured that the flood situation in the State remains under control, even as heavy rainfall triggered alerts in several rivers. The State recorded an average rainfall of 47.2 mm in the past 24 hours, higher than normal. Eight blocks reported rainfall exceeding 200 mm.
At Hirakud dam, only two gates have been opened, with water flow estimated to reach 7 lakh cusecs through Mundali barrage. Officials said there is no flood threat in the Mahanadi basin, while Baitarani, Jalaka, and Salandi rivers are under watch.
Chief Engineer of Water Resources Dillip Raut said flood alerts have been issued for Chandbali, Dhamnagar, and Jajpur (Baitarani), and Basta and Baleshwar Sadar (Jalaka). By 11 am, Mundali recorded a discharge of 6.37 lakh cusecs, expected to rise to 7 lakh cusecs by evening.
In Sundaragada, Balaeshwar, and Bhadrak, ODRAF and Fire Service teams have been deployed. Relief measures including cooked food distribution and evacuation have already begun in vulnerable areas. At Anandpur, the Baitarani river crossed the danger mark, flowing at 38 meters against the warning level of 37.445 meters. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
Despite the heavy inflow, officials reiterated that there is no cause for panic, with coordinated efforts underway to manage the situation and safeguard lives.