Koraput, Oct 30: Heavy rainfall triggered by Cyclone Arnab has pushed water levels in Odisha’s Jalaput reservoir dangerously close to its maximum storage capacity, prompting authorities to open seven gates as a precautionary measure to regulate the rising inflow.
According to official information, the reservoir has reached a water level of 2,749.05 feet against its maximum capacity of 2,750 feet. To prevent further accumulation and ensure dam safety, authorities are currently releasing approximately 24,000 cusecs of water per second through the seven opened gates.
Jalaput reservoir, a key component of the Machhkund hydroelectric project, has witnessed a significant rise in water levels following continuous rainfall across Koraput district under the influence of the cyclone.
Machhkund D-Dam Gates Also Opened
In a parallel development, authorities have opened gates numbered 5, 6 and 7 of the Machhkund D-Dam. The release from the dam is estimated at around 18,000 cusecs per second, with the water being discharged towards the Chitrakonda reservoir in neighbouring Malkangiri district.
Official sources have also indicated that floodwater has entered a turbine at the hydropower project. However, further details regarding the incident and its impact on power generation were not immediately available.
Authorities Maintain Close Vigil
Water Resources Department officials are closely monitoring the reservoir levels, inflow and discharge at both Jalaput and Machhkund dams. The controlled release is intended to manage the increasing water pressure and minimise the possibility of an uncontrolled overflow amid continued rainfall.
The situation has raised concerns over possible flooding in downstream areas, particularly as water continues to be released from the two dam systems.
Meanwhile, Water Resources Department Engineer-in-Chief Dilip Kumar Rout said the immediate flood threat remains concentrated in southern Odisha, especially along the Rushikulya river system in Ganjam district.
He indicated that the situation could gradually improve as the cyclonic system moves towards Chhattisgarh. However, officials will continue to monitor rainfall patterns and river conditions, as further precipitation could influence the flood situation.
With reservoir levels hovering close to their maximum limits, authorities remain on alert to respond to changing weather conditions and ensure the safety of downstream communities.
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