No Flood Threat as Baitarani River Stabilizes: Odisha Govt

Bhubaneswar: The water level in the Baitarani River at Akhuapada has reached 18.29 meters, remaining slightly below the danger mark but still above the warning level, according to Chandra Sekhar Padhi, Chief Engineer of the Water Resources Department.

Citing data from the Central Water Commission, Padhi confirmed that the water level is not expected to rise further, effectively ruling out the immediate risk of flooding. However, he noted that the department remains on high alert, with all necessary precautions already in place. “We are fully prepared, and the district administration is also maintaining close vigilance,” he said.

Padhi also provided updates on other major rivers in the state, stating that the water levels in the Brahmani, Budhabalang, and Mahanadi rivers remain above the danger mark. Despite this, the department has assured that the situation is being closely monitored, and no critical threat has been identified at this time.

In western Odisha, the Hirakud Dam is currently releasing water through eight sluice gates, with a discharge rate of around 4 lakh cusecs. Additionally, water is also being released from the Rengali Dam through two gates to manage upstream pressure.

Padhi emphasized that while water discharge operations continue, there is no immediate flood risk in downstream areas. The Water Resources Department, along with local authorities, is taking all necessary measures to ensure public safety and manage the situation efficiently.