Heavy overnight rainfall has once again inundated Baleshwar city, marking the fifth instance of urban flooding this month. Streets across Gudipada, Congress Gali, Nuasahi, and Chidiapol Square were submerged under nearly three feet of water, while hundreds of homes and shops reported drain water entering their premises.
Connectivity between Baleshwar bus stand and Remuna Road was cut off, leaving commuters stranded. Several colonies including Telenga Sahi, Padhuapada, Satyanagar, Ranipatna, Angaragadia, Ekatanagar, and Dwarikanagar witnessed waterlogging inside houses.
Despite over Rs 50 crore spent on drainage projects in the past 15 years, residents continue to suffer recurrent artificial floods due to blocked drains, encroachments, and unplanned construction. In the last 24 hours alone, Baleshwar district recorded an average of 112 mm rainfall, with Bhograi topping at 236 mm. Vast tracts of farmland across nearly 30 panchayats in Remuna and Sadar blocks have been submerged, causing widespread crop damage.
Locals allege repeated promises by successive governments and civic authorities have failed to resolve the crisis, leaving the city vulnerable to every spell of heavy rain.
