Bhubaneswar, Aug. 21 (UDN): The Odisha Water Resources Department has served a show-cause notice on Baitarani Power Projects Pvt. Ltd. (BPPL) over alleged lapses in the operation of gates at the Anandapur Barrage during high flood conditions.
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The action follows concerns over the management of water levels at the barrage and the possible impact of gate operations on downstream areas along the Baitarani river during the ongoing monsoon.
Explanation sought over gate operation
The department has sought an explanation from BPPL regarding the manner in which the barrage gates were operated when the river was experiencing high flood levels.
Officials have raised concerns over alleged irregular opening of the gates during peak flood conditions and have stressed that flood management must remain a key priority during such situations.
The department has also emphasised the need to maintain adequate buffer capacity in the barrage ahead of an anticipated extreme flood event so that sudden releases of water can be avoided or minimised.
Coordination stressed during monsoon
According to officials, operation of the barrage gates cannot be carried out independently. Any decision concerning gate opening or closing must be properly coordinated with the concerned project and Water Resources Department authorities.
The objective is to ensure that water releases are managed in a manner that does not unnecessarily increase flood pressure in downstream areas, particularly when the Baitarani is carrying substantial volumes of water.
Focus on flood safety
The notice has brought renewed attention to the balance between power-generation requirements and flood-control responsibilities at the barrage.
The Water Resources Department has reiterated that all gate operations during periods of high discharge must follow established procedures and be carried out in close coordination with the competent authorities.
The department’s latest action is aimed at ensuring more effective barrage management and reducing the risk of avoidable downstream flooding during extreme monsoon conditions.
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