Mrunal Manmay Dash

Baripada: An all-time record rainfall triggered by the cyclone Yaas in Similipal on Wednesday night left many rivers originating from the area in spate disrupting communication at several places.

As projected by the IMD, after Cyclone Yaas crossed the northern interior Odisha, Similipal in Mayurbhanj experienced very heavy rainfall. As per reports, Bhanjabasa recorded 382mm rainfall, Ramatirtha 357mm, Barehipani 331mm, Kabata Ghai 306mm and Na’ana recorded 278mm rainfall last night.

The heavy downpours created flood-like situation in many rivers like Bhandan, Khairi, Deonadi and Budhabalanga originating from Similipal. Flood water in Bhandan river marooned the locals of Asanapur village following which they were rescued by fire fighters and police late last night and lodged at the nearby cyclone shelter.

Even the Baitarani and Salandi rivers have swelled and the overflowing water disrupted communications at many places.

Sources said Baitarani is flowing at 3ft above the bridge in Turumunga. Similarly, flood water is flowing over the Sukruli – Charuan road, Kantakhari nullah in Khiching and Nuagaon nullah in Champua – Charuan road cutting off the locals from other parts of the district.

The major disruption was caused at the Baitarani bridge on NH-49. Flood water has forced made thousands of vehicles stranded on both sides of the highway.

Briefing about the rainfall, Odisha Special Relief Commissioner, Pradeep Jena said, “Baitarani is flowing above the danger level at Anandapur and Akhuapada.

Rohit Sethi, a senior official of the Water Resources Department said, “We are on spot monitoring the water level. People of the low-lying areas have already been warned. Any possible breach in the river embankment will be repaired within no time.”

scrollToTop