TV
Normal life has been thrown out of gear in large parts of Bhadrak district as villages in low-lying areas continue to be marooned. Such a situation has arisen even as floodwaters in the Baitarani River begin to recede gradually.
Sources reported that locals in both Bhandaripokhari and Dhamnagar blocks live in constant fear as the water level, despite falling, still flows dangerously close to the danger mark.
Baitarani Level Peaks at Night, Slowly Falling
According to reports, at the Akhuapada barrage, the floodwaters of the Baitarani River had peaked at 18.99 metres during midnight, which was well above the danger level of 18.33 metres. As of this morning, the water level stands at 18.90 metres, slowly receding but still posing a threat to nearby habitations.
Meanwhile, several villages under the Bhandaripokhari block, such as Rahania, Malda, and Napanga, remain inundated, with agricultural fields and residential areas submerged. In Dhamnagar block, too, areas like Shendhapur and Gaurangpur are facing minor flooding.
Administration On Alert; Emergency Protocols Active
The district administration has appointed separate officers for both affected blocks and is maintaining a state of high alert, said reports.
Schools and designated flood shelters have been readied, and evacuation advisories are being issued to residents in vulnerable areas. Citizens have been urged to move to higher ground or relief camps where necessary.
In the Dhamnagar block alone, nine panchayats have reported varying levels of flood impact. As a preventive measure, all schools in four of the most affected panchayats, including Sohada, Padahani, Arjunpur, and Hasanabad, have been closed for two days.
Connectivity Disrupted, Relief Underway
Earlier, in Bhandaripokhari, certain areas had been cut off due to submerged roads, but some access routes have now been restored. However, critical infrastructure like the bridge connecting Tikhlia and Dandakul was washed away, and authorities have deployed police to monitor the site and ensure public safety.
Relief efforts continue, with residents from low-lying regions temporarily housed in shelters. Many of them returned home after receiving meals and aid on Monday afternoon.
Health teams are active in waterlogged areas to monitor disease risks, and people have been advised to remain cautious, especially regarding snakebites, according to sources. While the immediate threat of a major flood is easing, the administration remains on guard, especially with more rain expected upstream.
