Three Gangrel Dam Gates Opened; Alert Issued for Mahanadi-Side Villages
Raipur, Sept 2026: Life in Dhamtari district has started to be affected by continuous heavy rainfall, with rivers and water bodies witnessing a sharp rise in water levels. All major reservoirs in the region are now nearly full. In view of the heavy inflow from catchment areas, three gates of the Gangrel Dam, also known as the Ravishankar Sagar Reservoir, have been opened on the instructions of the district administration.
A total of 4,670 cusecs of water is currently being released from the dam. Of this, 3,360 cusecs is flowing directly into the Mahanadi River, while another 1,410 cusecs is being diverted into the main canal through the Rudri Barrage.
With the Meteorological Department forecasting further rainfall in the region, authorities fear that the water level of the Mahanadi could rise rapidly. In view of the potential flood threat, the district administration has issued a high alert for villages located along the river and in low-lying areas.
The situation at the district’s reservoirs remains sensitive due to continued inflow. The Murumsilli Reservoir has reached 98.61 per cent of its capacity, with an inflow of 362 cusecs. The Gangrel Reservoir is currently 97.40 per cent full and receiving 3,365 cusecs of water.
Similarly, the Dudhawa Reservoir has reached 86.86 per cent of its capacity, with an inflow of 437 cusecs, while the Sondhur Reservoir is 69.25 per cent full and receiving 167 cusecs of water.
The increased discharge into the Mahanadi is aimed at managing the rising pressure on the reservoirs as water continues to flow into them from their respective catchment areas.
In view of the rising water levels and the possibility of flooding, the district administration has stepped up its preparedness. The Dhamtari Collector has instructed officials and field-level personnel to remain alert round the clock and maintain continuous surveillance of vulnerable locations.
The administration has appealed to residents, particularly those living in areas near rivers and streams, to avoid approaching water bodies and flooded locations. People have also been warned against attempting to cross swollen rivers or streams, as rapidly moving water can pose a serious risk to life.
Public announcements are being made in villages located along the Mahanadi to alert residents about the rising water levels and the possibility of flooding. Authorities are also preparing to move families living in low-lying areas to safer and elevated locations if the situation requires evacuation.
Relief centres have been identified at higher locations so that residents can be shifted promptly in case of an emergency. The administration is monitoring the situation closely and has directed field staff to remain prepared for any sudden change in water levels.
Officials have also urged citizens not to pay attention to rumours or unverified information regarding the flood situation. Residents have been advised to rely only on official communications and information issued by the district administration.
With heavy rainfall continuing and more showers forecast, authorities remain on high alert across Dhamtari district. The opening of the three Gangrel Dam gates and the monitoring of water inflows are part of measures being taken to regulate reservoir levels and minimise the risk of flooding in downstream areas.
