Cuttack, Aug 1: Floodwater discharge in the Mahanadi River has begun to decline, offering some relief after days of heavy inflow. The discharge, which was close to 900,000 cusecs on Thursday, fell to around 820,000 cusecs by 9:00 p.m. on Friday. Despite the drop, the Cuttack district administration has extended strict safety restrictions for another 48 hours, citing continued risks from the strong river current.

Authorities have prohibited devotees from collecting water at Gadagadia Ghat, a popular destination for the Kanwariya pilgrimage, and have advised pilgrims to avoid visiting the Dhabaleswar Temple. The restrictions will remain in effect until August 3, according to the district administration.

At Mundali, the river discharge is declining by nearly 10,000 cusecs every three hours. However, officials warned that the current remains extremely strong. With 22 gates of the Hirakud Dam continuing to release water, the flow at Mundali is expected to remain stable or witness a slight increase over the next 48 hours.

District Collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde has directed officials to ensure uninterrupted food supply and essential services for people staying in flood relief shelters. Sub-Collectors, Block Development Officers (BDOs), Tahsildars, and officials of the Cuttack Municipal Corporation have been instructed to remain on high alert and intensify monitoring in vulnerable areas. Public awareness campaigns through loudspeaker announcements have also been ordered.

The administration has imposed a complete ban on public entry to all river ghats along the Mahanadi and its tributaries. Activities including bathing, swimming, boating, taking selfies, and visiting barrage areas have been prohibited until further notice. Public movement, gatherings, and crowding at the Baliyatra Ground have also been restricted.

Officials have further banned people from standing on barrages, bridges, or embankments to watch the floodwaters, take photographs, or record videos. Access to these areas will be limited to emergency responders and personnel engaged in flood management operations.

Fishermen have been instructed not to venture into the river, while residents of low-lying and flood-prone villages have been advised to relocate their livestock to safer, higher ground. The district administration has warned that strict action will be taken against anyone violating the restrictions.