Balasore: Panic gripped the residents of low-lying areas in the Balasore district in Odisha after the water level in the Jalaka river breached the danger mark near Mathani after incessant rain for the last couple of days.
Local villagers apprehend yet another flood in the region as the river has swelled above 6.32 metres against the danger mark of 5.50 metres. The situation has become worse due to continuous rain in the upper catchment area of the river.
The water level in the upper reaches of the Jugka river in the Shulwanpada, Morda, Chitada, and Rasgobindpur areas of the Mayurbhanj district is increasing due to the heavy rains. The situation looks grim with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a yellow alert for heavy rain in nine districts of Odisha today.
Residents of the area fear that in case of another flood, there is a risk of crop loss in around 12 panchayats. Fear of flood has increased with the sand mafia excavating more sand illegally from the river.
