Flood threat looms over Odisha’s Balasore,  Mayurbhanj amid incessant rainfall

Once again, flood fears have gripped Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts of Odisha due to incessant rainfall triggered by a low-pressure system. In Balasore district, rivers are rising in several low-lying areas including the Basta block, raising the risk of inundation.

Water levels are already increasing in upstream regions such as Rasgobindpur, Sorada, Shuliapada, and Chitrada, resulting in waterlogging in many places. 

If the situation worsens, eight panchayats in Basta block- namely Mathani, Baharda, Kudia, Basi Chakurai, Darada, Mukulisi, Sadanandpur; and two panchayats in Sadar block- Srirampur and Rasulpur, are likely to be severely affected.

Adding to the concern is the weakened condition of river embankments in various places, leaving riverside residents fearful. During the first wave of flooding this season, structural cracks had developed at the sluice gate in Khala Jodi along the Subarnarekha River. As a result, heavy water flow is now gushing out through five gates. Local people have been trying to stop the flow by stacking sandbags.

In view of the probable flood situation, preparations for relief and response measures have already begun. Due to heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas of Jharkhand, the flood threat has intensified.

Major Rivers In Spate

Three major rivers- Subarnarekha, Budhabalanga, and Jalaka, are currently in spate. At Rajghat, the Subarnarekha River is flowing above the warning level. While the warning mark is 9.45 meters, the river is now flowing at 9.50 meters.

Similarly, in Mathani (Basta block), the Jalaka River has crossed the danger level. The Budhabalanga River is also swelling rapidly.
Recognizing the growing threat, the Water Resources Department has instructed the district Collectors of both Balasore and Mayurbhanj to remain on high alert. They have been directed to monitor the situation closely, ensure the safety of people, and keep evacuation and relief operations ready.

Hemant Singh, ADM, Balasore said, “The waterlevel is rising and we are keeping a close watch on Rajghat. It is flowing above the danger mark. We have evacuated people from three villages last night and rehabilitated them in a school. Only floodwater has entered two villages and there are no reports of damage to embankment.”

The Water Resources Department has also ordered close surveillance of riverbanks, relocation of vulnerable populations to safe areas, and real-time coordination of flood relief activities.

Naba Kumar Mahalik, Superintending engineer, Balasore Water Resources Department said, “We have taken precautions following alert from senior officials. We have kept sand bags and other equipments ready. Our officials are on high alert mode.”

Meanwhile, Odisha officials are maintaining communication with their Jharkhand counterparts regarding the regulated release of water to manage downstream flow and prevent sudden surges.

As river levels continue to rise and embankments remain vulnerable, the coming days will test the readiness and coordination of the district administrations in their flood mitigation efforts.