Sambalpur, August 18: Rain continues in the upper catchment areas of the Hirakud reservoir, leading to a rise in water inflow. In view of the increasing inflow, authorities have opened three more gates, taking the total number of open gates to 10.

At present, seven gates on the left side and three on the right side are open, with water being released into the Mahanadi.

As of 9 am, the reservoir water level stood at 619.87 feet. The reservoir is receiving around 2,01,710 cusecs of water per second, while 1,44,509 cusecs are being discharged.

Authorities are closely monitoring the inflow and outflow situation. Depending on the water level and the situation in the upper catchment areas, the number of open gates may be increased or reduced.