Bhubaneswar, Sept. 26 -- The flood situation in Odisha worsened on Saturday as authorities opened five additional gates of the Hirakud Dam following increased inflow into the reservoir.

With the latest move, floodwater is now being discharged through a total of 13 gates. Earlier, eight gates had been opened to release excess water.

According to reports, the decision to open more gates was taken after inflow increased in the upper catchment areas.

Authorities are closely monitoring the downstream situation as water levels continue to rise in several rivers across the state.

The increased discharge from Hirakud comes amid persistent rainfall and rising river levels in different parts of Odisha.

Meanwhile, the Budhabalanga River has cro...