With heavy rainfall across Odisha and the likely formation of another low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, the Water Resources Department has expressed concern over a possible flood in the Mahanadi river.

At present, Hirakud Dam is releasing excess water through 16 gates following heavy inflows caused by persistent rain in the catchment area.

Officials estimate that by September 27, nearly 7 lakh cusecs of water may reach Mundali, raising fears of flooding downstream.

Authorities have alerted all district collectors and instructed field officers to remain on high alert. Sambalpur city has recorded the heaviest rainfall in the state, with the Hirakud Upper Dam receiving 41 mm of rain in recent days.

Currently, the dam is receiving 2,58,502 cubic feet of water per second while 2,9

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