Bhubaneswar: Three northern districts of Odisha – Balasore, Bhadrak, and Jajpur – are bracing for a flood situation due to heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas of major rivers like Subarnarekha, Jalaka, and Baitarani.
The Baitarani River has crossed its danger mark at Akhuapada, with the water level rising to 18.8 meters, exceeding the danger level of 18.33 meters. Chief Engineer Lingraj Gaur stated that the river might reach 19 meters or more, indicating a flood-like situation.
Meanwhile, the Jalaka River has inundated several areas in the Basta block, affecting four areas and prompting the government to vacate them. Rescue teams have been deployed, and 22 people and 15 animals have been rescued. Cooked food was provided to around 260 people. Additional Collector Sudhakar Naik said that the water of the Jalka River is not expected to increase further.
Senior officials of the Water Resources department and District administration conducted night patrolling on the Baitarani left embankment near Sathibankuda and Jambhira in Bhadrak.
In view of the possible flood in Baitarani and Brahmani rivers, a preparatory meeting was held virtually with senior officers of various departments under the chairmanship of the Additional District Magistrate and District Magistrate-in-charge Sivananda Swain.
The meeting reviewed the status of cyclone shelters, the availability of emergency materials, relief materials, and the 24-hour control room. The Additional District Magistrate directed all officers to be prepared. He also reviewed the situation of various areas of Dasharathpur block that will be affected by the flood and held discussions with the local people, directing all officials to be prepared to deal with possible floods.
The administration is anticipating a flood in the Subarnarekha River and is preparing for a potential flood. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow warning for several districts in Odisha, including Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, and Mayurbhanj, predicting heavy rainfall and potential flooding.
