Odisha is facing a fresh flood threat as two days of incessant rain have caused several rivers to swell, raising concerns in Kendujhar, Baleshwar and Mayurbhanj districts.
The Baitarani River is flowing above the danger mark at Anandapur, while the Jalka River has also crossed the danger level at Mathani in Baleshwar’s Basta block.
With more rain expected, authorities are closely monitoring vulnerable areas and have advised residents living near riverbanks and in low-lying areas to remain alert.
Kendujhar areas face waterlogging
In Kendujhar, water levels have risen in the Baitarani and other rivers across Joda, Champua and Anandapur.
Water has reportedly started entering areas again through a breach in the Anandapur ring embankment, where repair work is yet to be completed.
Several parts of Joda municipality have been waterlogged after the Suna River overflowed. Floodwater has reached roads near the riverbank market, Women’s College and Bachu Halting.
Several wards in Badabil have also reported waterlogging, while water is flowing over the state highway near Serenda on the Bhadrasahi road.
The local administration has shifted people from vulnerable locations to flood shelters and remains on high alert.
Budhabalanga raises concern in Mayurbhanj
The flood situation is also causing concern in Mayurbhanj district, particularly in Baripada.
Floodwater from the Budhabalanga River has entered low-lying areas, including riverbank pockets in Wards 7 and 8. Authorities are working to move vulnerable residents to safer locations.
In Rasagobindapur, around four feet of water is reportedly flowing over the bridge at Sarumula, disrupting traffic. The Baripada-Amarda road has also been affected.
Meanwhile, the Budhabalanga is flowing strongly over the Kaliaami bridge in Bangiriposhi, adding to concerns about further inundation.
Jalka River crosses danger level in Baleshwar
In Baleshwar, the situation remains closely watched as the Jalka River at Mathani was flowing at 7.84 metres at 6 am, significantly above its 6.50-metre danger mark.
Officials are concerned that the river level could rise further if heavy rain continues in the upstream areas.
Around 90 villages across 17 panchayats in Basta block could be affected if the rainfall persists. Vulnerable areas include Dudhahansa, Baharda, Natakata, Brahmandha, Mathani and Barungadia.
Administration on alert as rain continues
The rising levels of the Baitarani, Budhabalanga and Jalka rivers have revived concerns over flooding in northern Odisha.
Authorities are monitoring river levels and vulnerable locations, while residents in low-lying and riverbank areas have been advised to remain cautious.
With more rainfall forecast, the situation could deteriorate further if river levels continue to rise.
