In a significant development for Odisha’s irrigation infrastructure, the Lower Suktel Dam in Balangir district has begun releasing its first floodwaters of the year, marking a crucial step in flood management and water distribution.

The release comes after intense monsoon rains filled the reservoir to near capacity, prompting authorities to open five of the dam’s 12 gates on Sunday evening.

The decision followed traditional rituals and puja ceremonies at 4 PM, as per local customs. Prior to the release, the dam’s water level had reached 199 meters, approaching its full storage capacity of 210 meters. Heavy downpours since September 22 had rapidly replenished the reservoir, which had been critically low until then, raising doubts about whether it would fill this season. As of the latest u

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