Sambalpur: The authorities on Thursday opened four sluice gates of the Hirakud Dam to release the season's first floodwater from the reservoir, marking the beginning of this year's flood management operations.

The gates were opened in phases following traditional rituals, a long-standing practice observed before the release of floodwater from the dam.

According to officials, a total of four sluice gates have been opened, including three gates on the left spillway and one gate on the right spillway, to regulate the rising water level in the reservoir.

At the time of the release, the water level in the Hirakud reservoir stood at 614.93 feet. The controlled discharge is aimed at maintaining the reservoir level while ensuring downstream river flow remains within safe limits.

The Hirakud Dam, built across the Mahanadi River in Odisha's Sambalpur district, plays a crucial role in flood control, irrigation and power generation. The opening of the gates is closely monitored by the Water Resources Department, particularly during the monsoon season, as inflows into the reservoir increase due to heavy rainfall in the Mahanadi basin.

Officials said the water discharge would continue to be regulated based on inflow into the reservoir and prevailing weather conditions to ensure the safety of downstream areas. They also urged people living along the Mahanadi riverbanks to remain alert and avoid venturing into the river during the release of floodwater.