3 hrs ago

Mahanadi Flood Threat Grows as State Evacuates Thousands

Heavy rain has caused rivers in Odisha to rise and overflow.

Flooding has affected 13 districts.

More than 70,000 people have been moved to safer places.

They are staying in 395 relief camps.

The Hirakud Dam is releasing extra water because its reservoir is nearly full.

Officials expect a large amount of water to travel down the Mahanadi River.

This could cause more flooding in several districts.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi flew over some flooded areas to see the damage.

One tourist site in Similipal National Park was temporarily closed because streams became swollen.

Key facts

Affected districts: Heavy rainfall and flooding have affected 13 districts.
Evacuations: More than 70,000 people were moved from low-lying areas.
Relief camps: Evacuated residents were housed in 395 relief camps.
Hirakud Dam gates: Water is being discharged through 24 sluice gates.
Reservoir level: The Hirakud reservoir stood at 628.29 feet against a full level of 630 feet.
Forecast flow: About 700,000 cusecs was expected to reach Mundali Sunday night, potentially increasing to 800,000 cusecs Monday morning.
Baleshwar river level: The Subarnarekha River measured 11.68 metres at Jaleswar’s Rajghat, above its 10.36-metre danger level.

thehansindia.com · 3 hrs ago