Sambalpur, Oct 13 (UDN): Reports claiming that the Hirakud Dam is facing imminent danger because water is leaking through 30 per cent of its gates are inaccurate, according to the clarification provided in the available information. The confusion appears to have arisen from the opening of 30 sluice gates for the controlled release of floodwater following heavy monsoon rainfall in the upper catchment areas.
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The opening of sluice gates is a routine dam-management measure used to regulate reservoir levels and manage increased inflows. Hirakud Dam has 98 gates in total, meaning that 30 open gates represent approximately 31 per cent of its total gate capacity by number. This does not, by itself, indicate leakage or structural damage.
Controlled Discharge, Not Accidental Leakage
The distinction between opening gates for water discharge and water leaking through closed gates is crucial. During periods of heavy rainfall, dam authorities regulate the release of water to maintain reservoir levels and manage downstream river flows.
Separately, reports of seepage within the dam’s inspection gallery have been discussed in connection with maintenance and dam-safety monitoring over the years. Such seepage requires appropriate technical assessment, but it should not automatically be interpreted as evidence of an imminent dam failure.
Dam Safety and Downstream Monitoring Remain Important
Hirakud Dam plays a critical role in flood management across the Mahanadi river system, making the regulation of reservoir levels and downstream discharge particularly important during periods of heavy rainfall.
Water Resources Department officials and dam engineers are responsible for monitoring inflows, reservoir levels and discharge conditions. Residents in downstream areas should follow official advisories and instructions issued by the district administration and relevant authorities.
Public Urged to Avoid Unverified Claims
The circulation of misleading headlines can create unnecessary panic, particularly during the monsoon season. The number of open gates should not be confused with the percentage of gates experiencing leakage.
While the available information does not establish an imminent structural emergency, the dam’s current safety status should be determined through official engineering assessments and verified government updates.
Important note: The claims regarding the opening of 30 gates and the absence of an imminent emergency have not been independently verified in real time for this report. Readers are advised to consult official Hirakud Dam and Odisha Water Resources Department updates for the latest reservoir levels, discharge figures and flood advisories.
