In response to torrential rainfall across Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar districts, river systems in northern Odisha are witnessing a significant rise in water levels, prompting emergency action by the Department of Water Resources.
At 1:00 PM today, the water level in River Baitarani was recorded at 38.82 meters at Anandapur, surpassing the danger mark of 38.36 meters. Akhuapada’s level is rising at 17.98 meters, projected to reach 18.65 meters by 10 PM as per the Central Water Commission (CWC) forecast.
River Jalaka remains steady at 7.20 meters at Mathani, significantly above its danger level of 6.50 meters.
Subarnarekha River exhibits a rising trend as well—47.92 meters at Jamsholaghat (danger level: 49.16 meters) and 7.26 meters at Rajghat (danger level: 10.36 meters). A peak flood scenario is expected by 10:00 AM tomorrow, with water projected to rise to 11.7 meters.
The State Flood Cell remains operational round-the-clock, closely tracking developments. Collectors of Jajpur, Bhadrak, and Balasore districts have been instructed to initiate precautionary evacuations and relief measures.
Senior officials, including Chief Engineers and Basin Managers of Subarnarekha, Budhabalang, Mahanadi, Brahmani, and Baitarani systems, are coordinating efforts with district administrations. Additionally, two Engineers-in-Chief have been sent from Bhubaneswar to supervise the on-ground flood management in the Subarnarekha and Baitarani basins.
With multiple river systems on edge, Odisha braces for challenging hours ahead. Citizens in low-lying and vulnerable areas are advised to stay alert and follow instructions from local authorities.
