Balasore flood crisis worsens: Villages submerged, cattle starving, drinking water crisis persists

The flood situation in Balasore continues to worsen, with large areas still underwater despite the receding water levels. As most villages continue to be underwater, there is a severe drinking water crisis. To add to the woes, connectivity to the villages is disrupted while cattle suffer from starvation.

As per reports, the water level in the Subarnarekha River, which had reached a dangerous mark of 10.36 meters near Rajghat, has now receded to 10.09 meters by 6 AM. However, the bad days are far from over for the residents here.

According to reports, the opening of the Galudihi barrage gate of the Chandili Dam in Jharkhand, combined with torrential rainfall, worsened the situation. Over 3,000 sq km of land, spanning four blocks, including Jaleswar, have been submerged. Thousands of residents have been affected by the ongoing flood, which has now entered its fourth day.

In Kusuda village of Bhograi panchayat, the main road connecting Bhograi and Kamarda remains inaccessible, further isolating affected areas. Although water levels have dropped below the danger mark, the plight of the people continues.

Local markets remain operational after sunrise, with residents purchasing essential items like potatoes, onions, and biscuits. However, a major concern is the drinking water crisis, as many borewells have been submerged. It is ironic that people are surrounded by floodwaters yet lack access to safe drinking water.

Notably, cattle are suffering the most, as they have been unable to eat for the last four days and have been surviving on water. Reportedly, farmlands and paddy crops are completely submerged and destroyed. 

It may take more than 15 days to restore normalcy in some of the affected areas.