Sundargarh: Incessant rainfall over the past 24 hours has led to severe flooding in several low-lying areas of Sundargarh district, including Rani Bagicha under Sundargarh Municipality. Rising water levels in the Ib River have submerged residential areas, public infrastructure, and key utility services.
According to local, floodwaters have entered Ward No. 1 of Rani Bagicha, causing significant disruption. The PHD pump house and the nearby water treatment plant have also been affected, raising concerns over potable water supply and sanitation.
The Ib River, fed by continuous downpours in both Sundargarh and the upper catchment areas of Chhattisgarh, is currently flowing above the danger mark. To manage the rising water levels, all 40 gates of the Samoda Barrage—located on the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border—have been opened, further intensifying the flooding situation downstream.
“Around our house, it is completely submerged. We have not stepped out due to the dangerously high water level. This has created a lot of hardship for us,” said a local resident.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued orange and yellow alerts for Sundargarh district, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 km/h.
The warnings remain in effect until July 30, urging residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.
