TV
Continuous heavy rain since Monday has left several areas of Balasore waterlogged, disrupting normal life across the city. The relentless downpour has created a flood-like situation, with water flowing through multiple low-lying areas.
In places like Chidia Pol, Nua Sahi, and Telanga Chhak, streets are submerged under nearly two feet of water, while Aadar Bazaar and Congress Gali have also been severely affected. Shops and homes remain inundated, adding to the challenges faced by residents.
Movement Severely Hampered
The waterlogging has made commuting across the city extremely difficult. Residents have expressed their dissatisfaction as drainage systems remain ineffective. Meanwhile, in the district headquarters hospital premises, a fallen tree fell down on an ambulance, further highlighting the severity of the situation.
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Critical Road Conditions Impacting Emergency Services
The Nuasahi Square, a key route connecting Baripada to Balasore and providing access to the Balasore District Headquarters Hospital (DHH), witnesses hundreds of ambulances transporting patients daily. However, incessant rainfall has left the area severely waterlogged, with waist-deep water flowing across the roads.
The situation has created major hurdles for locals and patients, as ambulances are now forced to take a detour of nearly 10 km to reach the hospital, causing significant delays in emergency medical care.
Drainage and Infrastructure Failures
Reports indicate that the waterlogging is exacerbated by poor drainage systems and unplanned infrastructure. Many houses have been constructed without the knowledge or permission of the concerned administration. Several influential individuals have forcibly built houses, ignoring rules and regulations. This has contributed to inadequate drainage and recurring flooding problems during the monsoon.
Households Struggle Amid Rising Water Levels
Several other parts of Balasore remain submerged following the heavy rains on Monday night. Residents have spent the entire night attempting to clear water that entered their homes, with rainwater reaching at least knee-high levels.
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A local resident said, “It rained from Monday midnight and continued till Tuesday morning. We have not cooked since morning, and the water is flowing at thigh-high height.” Numerous personal belongings have been damaged as homes remain submerged.
