Flood situation eases across Odisha, Jalaka River poses a threat: Top official

A major flood threat has subsided in Odisha as the water levels of most rivers have dropped below the danger mark, according to the Chief Engineer of the Water Resources Department. The only exception is the Jalaka river, which continues to pose a risk to some areas in the Basta region of Balasore district.

The Baitarani river, which had previously been a concern, has seen its water level fall significantly. At Akhuapada in Bhadrak district, the river is now flowing at 18.24 metres. The department's forecast indicates that the water level is expected to drop further, falling below the warning level by tomorrow. Yesterday, the river’s water level peaked at 18.4 metres before receding.

Also Read: Jalaka river crosses danger mark, flood threat looms over Balasore

Hirakud Dam Discharges Water

In response to increased rainfall in its upper catchment, the Hirakud reservoir has seen a rise in its water level. To manage this, water is being released from the dam through 20 sluice gates into the Mahanadi river. The Chief Engineer stated that an estimated 4.5 lakh to 5 lakh cusecs of floodwater will reach Mundali by September 7.

Official Statement

The Water Resources Department Engineer-in-Chief, Chandra Sekhar Padhi, said, “Except Jalaka, no other river is under flood threat. Yesterday, Baitarani was under flood threat, but the water level receded and fell below the danger mark. The water level in Akhuapada went up to 18.4 m and receded after 5 hours to 18.24 m and has remained the same since. We are hoping that tomorrow it will have receded further down to 17 m."

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"Apart from that, no other river is under flood threat and flowing below the danger mark. Only Balasore's Basta area will be affected due to the Jalaka river, and due to the river is smaller compared to the others, its impact will be lesser too. Floodwater is being let out through 20 sluice gates of Hirakud Dam into the Mahanadi,” he added further.