Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s Water Resources Department has issued a flood alert as several rivers, including Jalka, Baitarani, and Brahmani, are flowing above or close to their danger levels due to continuous rainfall across the state.
Addressing the media today, Chief Engineer Chandrashekhar Padhi confirmed that the Jalka River is currently flowing at 7.20 meters, surpassing its danger mark of 6.5 meters.
“We are in constant touch with the district administrations. Evacuation and restoration efforts will be taken up wherever necessary,” he said.
The Baitarani River is also witnessing rising water levels, currently recorded at 38.22 meters, which is above the danger mark.
The situation is being closely monitored in Jajpur and Bhadrak districts, where some people have already been moved to relief camps.
“We anticipate flood impact in Dhamnagar and surrounding low-lying areas. Our teams are on alert and ready for any required restoration work,” Padhi added.
The Brahmani River has received approximately 38 mm of rainfall and its water level at the Rengali Dam stands at 121 meters, still below the danger threshold.
“The dam has a remaining storage capacity of about 71–72%. Three gates have been opened to manage outflow. Low-lying areas in Kendrapara have been alerted as a precaution,” the Chief Engineer noted.
Turning to the Hirakud Dam, Padhi said the Upper Mahanadi catchment received an average of 35 mm of rainfall. The dam’s water level, which was 609 feet yesterday, has now risen to 610 feet.
“We plan to release some water through 20 gates to manage inflows. At present, there is no significant flood threat in nearby regions,” he assured.
Meanwhile, the Subarnarekha River is currently flowing at 6.99 meters, below its danger level.
However, officials warn that flooding may occur within the next 24 hours.
“All district administrations and local populations have been alerted and field teams are already deployed,” said Padhi.
The district administration continues to monitor the situation closely and urges residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant and follow official instructions.
