Odisha Reviews Reservoir and Dam Safety Measures Ahead of Cyclone Arnab

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Water Resources Department has stepped up preparedness to manage potential heavy rainfall and reservoir inflows associated with Cyclone ‘Arnab’, with a focus on dam safety, river monitoring and emergency response in vulnerable areas.

A review meeting was held under the chairpersonship of Engineer-in-Chief Dillip Kumar Rout to assess the department’s preparedness and response measures ahead of the cyclone.

The meeting reviewed rainfall forecasts, reservoir conditions, anticipated inflows and outflows, and the readiness of field formations. Engineers were instructed to continuously monitor rainfall, river levels and reservoir conditions to facilitate timely action as the situation evolves.

Special attention was given to major and medium reservoirs in southern Odisha, including Indravati, Kolab, Balimela, Bhanjanagar, Harabhangi and Bhaskel. Officials discussed the need to maintain reservoir levels within safe limits to accommodate additional inflows from the anticipated cyclonic rainfall. The status and management of Hirakud Dam were also reviewed in detail.

The concerned engineers were asked to remain alert, regularly assess conditions in their respective jurisdictions and take prompt action wherever necessary. Coordination with district administrations and the timely sharing of information were emphasised to ensure a coordinated response.

The meeting also stressed regular inspections of vulnerable stretches along river embankments, readiness of field teams and adequate availability of manpower and materials to address emergencies.

Chief Engineers, Chief Construction Engineers and Executive Engineers associated with the Tel Basin, Indravati-Kolab Basin, Rushikulya-Bansadhara-Nagavali (RBVN), Potteru and Mahanadi Basin attended the meeting.

The review is part of the department’s preparedness efforts to manage potential impacts of Cyclone Arnab on rivers, reservoirs and water infrastructure across Odisha.