Sambalpur: The water level continued to rise at Hirakud dam due to heavy rainfall in upper catchment area of Mahanadi River.

The water level reached 615.52 ft by 9.00 am on Monday.

Reportedly, 90,364 cusec water is entering into the reservoir against outflow of 15,132 cusec water.

In view of increase of water level in past few days at the reservoir, the authorities have decided to release first flood water of this season on August 14.

Earlier, water level had declined at the Hirakud dam constructed on the Mahanadi River due to subdued monsoon, affecting the hydroelectricity production in the state.