Flood Crisis: Experts Weigh In on Whether Conditions Will Improve

Bhubaneswar, 13th Sept 2025: The Mahanadi River is swelling, but the flood threat is receding as the number of open Hirakud dam gates is being reduced.  However, a minor flood is still likely in the Mahanadi River. Earlier, 24 gates of Hirakud Dam were opened; the floodwaters are expected to reach Mundali by this evening. As of 7 AM in Mundali, 5,96,950 cusecs of floodwater was flowing. Water levels have decreased in rivers like Jalka, Baitarani, Subarnarekha, and Budhabalanga. Due to rainfall in the upper catchment of the Mahanadi, more water is entering the river. Since water is expected to reach downstream areas, administration has been instructed to stay alert.