Sambalpur: Authorities on Sunday opened four sluice gates of the Hirakud Dam in Odisha's Sambalpur to release excess floodwater as the reservoir level continued to rise due to heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas.

A total of four sluice gates have been opened, including three on the left spillway and one on the right spillway, to regulate the inflow and maintain the reservoir at a safe level.

The decision was taken following a steady increase in water inflow into the Hirakud reservoir, triggered by incessant rainfall in the upstream regions of the Mahanadi basin.

Meanwhile, the authorities have issued a flood alert for the downstream areas of the Mahanadi River. Residents in low-lying regions have been advised to remain cautious as the discharged water is expected to increase the river's flow.