TV
A renewed flood crisis has gripped low-lying areas of northern Balasore after continuous rains triggered by a low-pressure system and water release from Galudih Barrage in Jharkhand caused the Subarnarekha River to swell again, as of 8 am this morning.
The rising water level has sparked widespread inundation in Bhograi and Baliapal blocks, marooning dozens of villages and forcing people to rely on traditional boats for survival.
Rising River, Growing Isolation
Sources reported that Subarnarekha has breached safe levels for the fifth time this season, while the Jalaka River is experiencing its second surge.
According to local authorities, water levels continued to climb over the weekend, prompting fears of a fresh large-scale flood. Eight gram panchayats in Bhograi and seven in Baliapal are currently under severe distress.
Villages such as Kumbhiragadia, Kulha, Khalabadiya, and Baunshakhana have become completely disconnected from the outside world. In these water-logged pockets, the only available means of movement is through country boats, often operated privately at high cost or under unreliable terms.
Boat Troubles Add To Plight
In Khalabadiya and Baunshakhana, several women attempting to return from local markets by boat were refused service by operators, citing water flow conditions. This led to a distress call to Bhograi Block Development Officer Prashant Maharana, who personally intervened.
Sources reported that he arranged an additional boat to ensure safe passage for the stranded villagers and supervised their return home.
Administration On Alert
In response to the escalating crisis, district officials have set up temporary flood shelters, moving residents from severely affected zones to safer areas.
Cooked meals and dry rations are being distributed regularly, while medical teams remain on standby. As of the latest reports, more than 35 villages in Baliapal and over 60 in Bhograi remain submerged or partially isolated.
