Flood alert in Balasore as Subarnarekha River crosses danger mark at Rajghat

The Subarnarekha River has crossed the danger level at Rajghat village in Odisha’s Balasore district, sparking fears of possible flooding in nearby regions. The water level was recorded at a consistent level of 11.40 meters between 2am and 5am today, before slightly receding to 11.09 meters at 11am.

Several low-lying areas, including Baliapal, Bhogarai, and Jaleswar blocks, have begun to experience waterlogging, with significant distress reported from Baunsakhana and Matikhana villages.

In response, the Balasore District Administration has issued an emergency alert, directing officials in Jaleswar, Bhogarai, Basta, and Baliapal to cancel all leaves and remain on 24-hour vigil. Preparations for possible evacuations are ongoing, with the district ordering the stockpiling of essential supplies and identifying flood relief shelters.

As of now, 53 individuals from the Jaleswar Municipality area have been temporarily evacuated but have since returned home. Some regions in Baliapal and Kamarda are reportedly affected but have not yet required evacuation.

ODRAF and Emergency Measures: To bolster preparedness, four ODRAF teams have been deployed in the region:

Balasore: Two teams stationed at Baliapal and Bhogarai
Mayurbhanj: Two teams stationed at Nedam/Jharpokharia and Tikayatpur/Rasgovindpur

DIG Eastern Range Dr. Satyajit Naik has issued a directive to all district SSPs to ensure VHF communication readiness, verify the operational status and location of rescue boats, and maintain high alert. He is in constant communication with the Collectors and SSPs of Balasore, Mayurbhanj, and Bhadrak to oversee real-time response and mitigation efforts.

The situation continues to be closely monitored, and authorities urge residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert and follow official instructions.